Ajax boss provides update on Manchester United-linked Antony's future

Ajax boss Alfred Schreuder is confident that Antony will stay with the Dutch champions this summer despite the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

The 22-year-old was not involved in Sunday's Eredivisie clash with Sparta Rotterdam, with Schreuder admitting ahead of the contest that the attacker was not in the right frame of mind to play.

"Antony is not in the squad. I spoke with Antony and he told me that he didn't feel 100% ready to play. I only want players in the squad that are 100% focused on Ajax," the head coach told ESPN.

Manchester United are believed to be preparing to make a fresh offer for the Brazil international, having allegedly had a bid in the region of €80m (£67.9m) rejected last week.

However, speaking after his side's 1-0 win over Rotterdam, Schreuder said that he was not worried that the attacker could be on the move before the end of the summer transfer window.

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"I want Antony to stay. I am assuming that the club will not sell him. The money that is being thrown around these days is crazy. But I would not find it okay if we sell another player. We are in a powerful position, financially," said Schreuder.

"Yes, my feeling is good. I understand Antony. But you play for Ajax. We are playing Champions League football. I don't think Manchester United are playing Champions League football."

Antony has started the 2022-23 campaign in impressive fashion for his Dutch club, scoring twice and providing two assists in three appearances, including one goal and two assists in two league fixtures.

However, he did not train with his teammates on Thursday or Friday, with his agent believed to be pushing for the Eredivisie champions to negotiate a deal with Man United.

Ajax are in a strong position when it comes to the attacker, with his contract having another three years left to run, while they have made some big sales this summer, including Lisandro Martinez to the Red Devils.

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However, Antony recently said that he could not guarantee that he would be staying with the Amsterdam giants beyond the end of the summer transfer window.

"No, to be perfectly honest (offer Ajax fans assurances that he would remain at the club), I can't. What I can say is that I want to come to the right decision with my family, business partners and Ajax, which is good for everyone," Antony told De Telegraaf.

"In the end, God determines my future. I am very happy at Ajax, I have a contract until the summer of 2025 and I will give everything for this beautiful club for every second.

"I wear the shirt with pride and from day one I feel at home. If we all decide that I will stay here, then I know that this is the best thing for me and the club.

"It's not like I have to leave. Now I am focusing on playing football and have put all other matters in the hands of my agents and my brother. They will advise me on what is best."

There have been suggestions that Ajax value Antony, who was also linked with Chelsea and Bayern Munich earlier this summer, in the region of €100m (£84.9m).