Antony's move to Manchester United is set to be officially announced very soon after the Red Devils reached a breakthrough in negotiations with Ajax late on Sunday evening.
The 22-year-old winger has been the subject of intense interest from United, now spearheaded by his old Ajax boss Erik ten Hag, all summer and their efforts finally look to have paid off. After previous bids were rejected, the two parties reached an agreement that will see United fork out £85m including add-ons to pry the wide-man away from the Dutch capital.
While the allure of the Premier League and the stature of United as a club no doubt played its part in swaying Antony, the presence of Ten Hag may have been the biggest factor overall. The pair enjoyed a stellar working relationship during their shared time at the Amsterdam Arena.
This was exhibited during the farewell process for Ten Hag's departure earlier this year once it had been confirmed he would take over in the Old Trafford hot seat. Plenty of the current Ajax crop said their goodbyes, but Antony took to social media to film a touching message for his boss.
"Hi trainer, Erik ten Hag, I want to wish you all the best at your new club," said the Brazilian.
"I also want to thank you for everything you taught me. I am thankful for all the opportunities and learning every day," he continued. Antony's next sentiment was particularly profound and eye-opening with the added context of United's transfer interest.
"Know that I will always stand with you if you need me. A big hug and good luck!" Recent reports have suggested that the moment Ten Hag made it clear to Antony he was wanted in Manchester the 22-year-old had his heart set on the move.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Will Antony be a successful signing for United? Comment below
So much so, that he actually went public with his desire to end his Ajax chapter. "During the window months, meetings concluded including a proposal from Ajax for a contract renewal. I made it clear once again I want to leave the club," Antony explained via Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on YouTube.
"Today in a meeting with the board I expressed my interest in leaving the club, this time with a considerable offer on the table. Others have already arrived (but) Ajax always refuses with the argument it only has five days to replace (me).
"I'm not asking (for Ajax) to release me, I am asking Ajax to sell me for the highest bid received for a player who plays in the Eredivisie." Antony's wishes are now on the verge of coming true as he is surely set to become the most expensive export in Dutch football history before the window closes.
