Manchester United are poised to begin yet another new era, with a deal for Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim drawing closer following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal on Monday.

INEOS had been debating the decision for a long time, but Sunday’s humiliating defeat to West Ham proved to be the final straw, and the new co-owners were forced to end the Dutchman’s stay with the team wallowing in 14th position in the Premier League. While two trophies were won during the former Ajax coach’s tenure, the two-and-a-half years were marred by player squabbles, perplexing selection decisions, and a lack of a distinct personality. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new-look squad had invested much in the summer to aid Ten Hag, but his refusal to play Manuel Ugarte in midfield alongside Kobbie Mainoo did not impress the management.

With Amorim due to take over, new players should see more minutes, while several underperforming stars will be playing to save their United careers. Antony is one of them, with the big-money signing failing to impress his former manager since arriving at Old Trafford. The Brazilian is currently injured. According to Talksport, United have opted to release the former Ajax winger as early as January, with Ajax and Flamengo among the clubs interested.

United are anticipated to face a significant blow on their initial £86 million spend, with Ten Hag’s preference for the Brazil international generating problems in the locker room, which INEOS is keen to address. “TalkSPORT knows Antony has already been warned he can leave Old Trafford when the transfer window reopens in January after failing to justify his status as United’s second-most expensive player in history. “This notebook can also reveal Ten Hag’s loyalty to the under-performing 24-year-old over their players was a bone of contention inside the United dressing room.”

Interestingly, Spanish outlet Fichajes claims that Chelsea, who signed Jadon Sancho on loan in the summer, may be willing to let away of another of United’s issue players. The Blues believe Antony can add dynamism to their final third, while Mykhailo Mudryk is among the players who appear to be leaving the club. “Chelsea, guided by Enzo Maresca, have set their sights on a Manchester United reject, Antony, with the Red Devils’ Brazilian winger apparently likely to go.

Interestingly, Spanish outlet Fichajes believes that Chelsea, who signed Jadon Sancho on loan this summer, may be willing to let go of another of United’s problem players. “Chelsea, guided by Enzo Maresca, have set their sights on a Manchester United reject, Antony, with the Red Devils’ Brazilian winger apparently likely to go.” The Blues believe Antony can provide dynamism to their final third, while Mykhailo Mudryk appears to be leaving the club.