£95m ‘mystery’ player explains why he wanted to join Manchester United as transfer confirmed

The 22-year-old signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford, with an option for a further year, after United agreed to pay €100m for his services earlier this week.

Antony says he is looking forward to playing his part in Manchester United’s return to success after completing his transfer to Ajax on deadline day.

United paid €95m to Ajax, plus an additional €5m in fees. This includes a solidarity payment to Sao Paulo, Antony’s first professional club.

Antony will be reunited with his former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag, who made the Brazilian international his attacking priority in the summer transfer window.

Ten Hag wanted a left-footed striker to balance United’s unbalanced attack. Now Antony is eager to repay the faith shown in him by the man who brought him to European football in the first place.

“This is an incredible moment in my career because I am joining one of the most iconic clubs in the world,” he said. “I am grateful to everyone who believed in me, especially my family, and all my coaches and teammates, because I couldn’t have got here without them.

“Playing under Erik Ten at Ajax was perfect for me and my development. His style of football and coaching brings out the best in me, and I am excited by what he has told me about his plans and ambitions in Manchester.”

“My time at Ajax was fantastic and I will always be grateful for the trust they placed in me, but now I am ready for the next challenge, and I am looking forward to joining my new teammates and playing my part in bringing success to Manchester United.”