Antony, now a Manchester United winger, was once on Liverpool’s radar as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, according to his agent, Junior Pedroso.
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Reports reveal that Liverpool explored signing the Brazilian in 2022 when uncertainty loomed over Salah’s contract renewal.
The Times recently disclosed that Liverpool identified Antony, then playing for Ajax, as a candidate to fill Salah’s boots should the Egyptian decide to leave Anfield.
Salah, however, chose to extend his deal, cementing his legacy as Liverpool’s fifth-highest all-time scorer. Antony eventually moved to Manchester United in a deal worth £82 million.
Antony’s agent confirmed the speculation, stating, “Yes, this story has some basis in truth.” He further clarified, “Salah renewed his contract with Liverpool at the time, and that made Antony’s move to Liverpool impossible.”
Despite his high-profile transfer to United, Antony’s performances have fallen short of expectations. The Brazilian has struggled for form, making just one start this season before Erik ten Hag’s dismissal.
Reports suggest United are considering offloading the winger in the January transfer window.
Antony’s struggles have also drawn criticism from former United defender Gary Neville, who labeled him one of the club’s worst signings.
“I think Antony and Casemiro were panic buys after the Brighton and Brentford losses,” Neville remarked. “The fees and salaries for those two players were astronomical. Antony, in particular, has to be considered one of the biggest transfer flops in the club’s history.”
Meanwhile, Salah remains a vital asset for Liverpool. However, as his current contract nears its expiration at the end of the season, questions about his future at Anfield are beginning to resurface.
While Liverpool dodged a potential misstep with Antony, Salah’s ongoing brilliance underscores the importance of careful planning for his eventual replacement.
