Tottenham 'to rival Manchester United for Ajax star Antony' in potential swap deal

Tottenham are reportedly interested in signing Ajax star Antony, and would be willing to send Steven Bergwijn in the opposite direction.

Manchester United have been linked with a £51million move for the Brazilian winger, which could see him reunite with Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.

However, as reported by the Sun, Antonio Conte is interested in the 22-year-old, after already scoring three signings since securing their return to the Champions League.

Antony enjoyed a successful season with the Eredivisie title winners, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in Ten Hag's final season at the club.

This has led to the Brazilian, who has made nine senior international appearances, attracting interest from some of Europe's top sides.

Manchester United are expected to make a number of signings this summer, with Ten Hag looking to rebuild the side after they endured their worst Premier League campaign ever last season.

In addition to Ten Hag being a strong negotiating chip for the club, the relations between Manchester United and Ajax are said to be strong.

Edwin van der Sar, a legendary figure at both clubs and now a senior football executive with the Dutch club, is believed to be a key part of those strong relations.

Tottenham though are said to believe they hold the key to land Antony, due to Ajax's interest in former PSV Eindhoven star Bergwijn.

The 24-year-old joined Spurs in January 2020 for £26million but has failed to hit it off at the Premier League side.

In two-and-a-half seasons, Bergwijn has made 83 appearances and scored eight goals, though has mostly been used off the bench.

He failed to break into Conte's plans, scoring just three goals in the league this past season.

However, two of those came in stoppage time against Leicester City, securing a memorable comeback victory which proved to be crucial in Spurs securing a top four finish.

Erik ten Hag has already missed out on Darwin Nunez who joined Liverpool for £85million this summer.

There have also been reports their pursuit of Jurrien Timber has hit a block, due to the defender's concern over moving to Old Trafford in a World Cup year.