Man United are inching ever-close to a whopping £85million deal for Ajax star Antony, a transfer that could create a £164m domino effect for Chelsea.
Both the Red Devils and the Blues are expected to be the two busiest clubs in the Premier League for the remaining four days of this summer's transfer window. For Todd Boehly, Wesley Fofana's £70m plus switch from the East Midlands to West London is currently being finalised, with an announcement expected by Monday at the latest.
Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag's side are now set to follow up the impressive Casemiro signing with the coup of his Brazilian compatriot, who has been on strike over the last few days to try and force the issue with Ajax. Whilst the Amsterdam-based club didn't want to sell, the 22-year-old's actions in recent times, coupled with the prospect of receiving an Eredivisie transfer record fee for one of their players, reluctantly meant that a 'green light' was eventually given despite all the doubt.
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The Athletic have confirmed that once all add-ons are taken into account, United could pay up to £85m in total for the winger in question.
For Ajax now, what do they do? They initially wanted a reunion with Ziyech either on a cut-price deal or loan, but Chelsea's knowledge of the money being received in the Antony deal has altered their stance. It is understood that Boehly is demanding £37m for the Moroccan with a compromise on the cards.
If Chelsea's number 22 were to return to Ajax, that would leave a vacant position on the wing and in the forward position. With a move for Anthony Gordon seeming more unlikely by the minute amid a fresh £85m demand coupled with the lateness of the proposed move for the Toffees to source a suitable replacement, other options will need to be assessed.
Rafael Leão is still someone of much interest, and triggering the £127m clause would leave AC Milan powerless, regardless of if they cannot sign a replacement before. So, Antony to Man United, Ziyech to Ajax and Leao/Gordon to Chelsea could be the transfer domino effect to keep an eye on in these final knockings.
Chelsea fans- Would you rather pay £85m for Antony or £127m for Rafael Leão? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below!
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