There have been frustrations within the corridors of power at Old Trafford down the years about the so-called “Manchester United tax”. In other words, clubs hiking up the price on their players simply because it is United registering an interest.

Manchester United are making progress in talks over winger Antony’s proposed loan move to Real Betis. The Brazil international, 24, is yet to start a Premier League game this season and has made only seven substitute appearances in the competition.

The Old Trafford hierarchy are intent on overhauling the squad, but they first need to clear the wage bill in order to meet restrictions from Profit and Sustainability Rules. Antony is on a vast salary, reported to be around £200,000 a week, having been handed a major contract after moving to Manchester from Ajax in 2022.