'Very complex' - Real Betis issue transfer update on Man United star Antony

Real Betis are determined to re-sign Man United winger Antony after his successful loan spell in Spain last season.

Real Betis sporting director Manu Fajardo is confident they will be able to re-sign Manchester United winger Antony in this summer's transfer window - but has admitted the deal will not be easy to complete.

The Brazilian spent the second half of last season on loan at the La Liga club and scored nine goals and registered five assists in 26 appearances.

Antony, who joined United from Ajax almost three years ago, is one of three players the Reds have identified as a priority sale this summer. United need to sell him for £32.58million to avoid a loss under the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

Betis have made no secret of their interest in signing the winger for a second time, but chief executive Ramon Alarcon, in May, said they would be attempting to sign him on loan once again. Whether they are still prioritising another loan deal over a permanent switch, Fajardo believes they will find a way to get a deal done.

"We all have to be aware that this is a very complex operation," Fajardo told Estadio Deportivo. "Given the player's level and his recent career at Real Betis, it's not an easy transaction.

"But, as long as Antony hasn't committed to a third party, we, with the utmost humility, will play our cards to be able to opt for Antony.

"I insist, despite this being a complex operation, we will try to carry it out in different ways without compromising the club. In the end, the most important thing is also the sustainability of the club.

"We will try to be creative, as we have been in the past, so that Antony can be here. Today, the market is open, as I said before, it's very dynamic, and we are part of that game."

Antony has made no secret of his interest in a return to Betis, and that comes as no surprise to Fajardo.

He added: "It doesn't surprise me (Antony wants to return to Betis). And I'd like to take this opportunity once again to highlight the work that Real Betis does as a whole, across all departments.

"When a player arrives here and has such an immediate impact, that's no coincidence. It's the result of the work, sacrifice, and seriousness of everyone involved on a day-to-day basis. Not only so that Antony can perform and give his best, but so that all the players who join Betis can reach their prime."