Besiktas Pursue Antony for Marquee Signing
Besiktas are lining up an audacious move for former Manchester United winger Antony as they hunt for a marquee signing to ignite their attack.
The Istanbul giants have turned to the Brazilian after missing out on Mohamed Salah, who chose Trabzonspor, according to Turkish outlet Fanatik. Losing that race has only sharpened Besiktas’ determination to land a headline name before the new season kicks off.
They see Antony as exactly that. A player with Champions League pedigree, a record transfer on his CV and, crucially, a point to prove.
From record sale to revival
Antony’s journey has already taken in some of Europe’s biggest stages. In 2022 he left Ajax as the Dutch club’s record outgoing transfer, joining Manchester United in a deal worth at least €95 million. The fee brought weighty expectations; his time at Old Trafford never quite matched the price tag.
After struggling to fully convince in England and spending a spell away on loan, the winger moved on permanently last year, sealing a €22 million switch to Real Betis. Spain has suited him.
In Seville, Antony rebuilt his reputation with a sharp, productive campaign, registering 14 goals and 10 assists in all competitions. That resurgence has not gone unnoticed.
Betis open to talks, Europe watching
Despite his strong form, reports in Spain suggest Real Betis are prepared to listen if a serious offer lands on the table. They hold a powerful hand: Antony is under contract until mid-2030 and is currently valued at around €40 million.
Besiktas know they are not alone in this chase. Clubs from across Europe’s top five leagues are tracking the 24-year-old’s situation, intrigued by his revival in La Liga and the possibility of prising him away while his stock is rising again.
The competition is real. So is Besiktas’ intent.
Big price, big statement
For Besiktas, this is about more than numbers on a balance sheet. Pulling off a deal of this scale would send a message across the Super Lig and beyond that they are ready to compete aggressively in the market.
The financial hurdles are obvious: a long contract, a €40 million valuation and rival bidders with deep pockets. Yet the club are described as determined to explore every possible route to bring Antony to Istanbul before the window closes.
If they succeed, the right flank suddenly becomes one of the most intriguing battles in their squad. Antony would reunite with former Ajax team-mate Václav Cerny, fighting directly with him for the starting role on the wing.
Crunch time for Besiktas
All eyes now turn to the next phase of negotiations. Besiktas must test Real Betis’ resolve, navigate the interest from other major leagues and convince Antony that his next chapter should be written on the Bosphorus.
The window is ticking down. The club want a blockbuster. The player has rebuilt his reputation and stands at a career crossroads.
Does that path lead to Istanbul? The coming days will give the answer.
