Antony Reveals Liverpool's 'Very Good Proposal' Before Joining Manchester United
Former Manchester United winger Antony has made a stunning claim that Liverpool were close to signing him in 2022 before he opted for Old Trafford. The Brazilian, now at Real Betis, disclosed that the Reds had tabled a concrete offer as they prepared for the possible departure of Mohamed Salah.
Speaking in an interview relayed by ESPN Brazil, Antony said: "When I went to Manchester United, I had a proposal from Liverpool, from Klopp, on the table. It was also very good. Salah was negotiating a departure, but he ended up staying. Then the manager called me. The name of Manchester United carries weight."
Antony's Career Revival at Real Betis
After a turbulent spell at Manchester United, Antony has rejuvenated his career during a loan spell at Real Betis. The 26-year-old has recorded 14 goals and 10 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions this season, restoring his reputation as a top-class winger.
His move to United in 2022 cost approximately £82 million, a fee that has been heavily scrutinised given his inconsistent performances. However, his form in Spain suggests he is rediscovering the talent that made him one of Europe's most sought-after prospects at Ajax.
Mohamed Salah's Liverpool Legacy
Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah remained at Liverpool for four more years after Antony's transfer, scoring 257 goals in 442 appearances and winning another Premier League title. However, this season saw a dip in form, with only 12 goals in 41 matches. A public outburst at manager Arne Slot in December fueled exit rumours, which were confirmed when Salah announced his departure in March.
Liverpool are now prioritising a replacement for the Egyptian legend. RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande has emerged as the leading candidate, after an impressive debut season in Germany where he scored 13 goals and provided 10 assists in 36 appearances. The 21-year-old has attracted interest from several top European clubs, meaning Liverpool face stiff competition.
What Antony's Revelation Means for Liverpool
Antony's disclosure highlights Liverpool's contingency planning during Salah's contract negotiations in 2022. The club was actively preparing for life without their star forward, but Salah's decision to stay changed their transfer strategy. Now, with Salah gone, Liverpool are determined to bolster their attack this summer.
As Antony continues to thrive at Real Betis, his claim adds an intriguing footnote to one of the Premier League's most debated transfers. Whether Liverpool will revisit their interest in the Brazilian remains to be seen, but his current form suggests he could still be a valuable asset.
