Botafofo and Sao Paulo FC have reportedly failed in their bids to sign Manchester United outcast Antony this summer.

Manchester United winger Antony has reportedly turned down the chance to return to Brazil, despite interest from Botafogo and Sao Paulo FC, the club where he began his professional career.

According to Canal do Medeiros via Antenados no Futebol, Botafogo made informal contact to assess Antony’s willingness to join them as part of their attacking reinforcements. However, the 25-year-old made it clear that he has no intention of returning to Brazilian football at this stage of his career, politely declining the approach.

Sao Paulo FC, meanwhile, are also monitoring Antony’s situation closely, not necessarily to bring him back, but due to FIFA’s solidarity mechanism, which entitles them to a financial percentage should the winger secure a move abroad this summer.

A costly investment looking for redemption

Antony has struggled to live up to the hefty €95 million price tag that saw him move from Ajax to Manchester United in 2022. Despite flashes of brilliance, consistency has eluded the Brazilian, and he has found himself on the fringes at Old Trafford, particularly after his loan spell at Real Betis last season.

Manchester United are open to parting ways with Antony this summer, and while interest has emerged from clubs across Europe and the Middle East, no deal has yet materialised. With the player committed to staying in Europe, his future could take a turn in the coming weeks, especially as Manchester United look to trim their squad under their new project.

While Antony’s situation might not directly affect Manchester United, it is yet another indication of a market where talented but unsettled players could become available at more reasonable prices.  Moreover, the fact that Antony remains committed to proving himself in Europe rather than opting for an early return home signals a player still motivated to make an impact at the top level, which may pique interest from clubs across the continent.

Antony’s chapter at Old Trafford may be nearing its end, but he is not ready to write his story in Brazil just yet. As the market shifts and opportunities arise, expect more twists around the Brazilian winger’s next move.