”To be honest I dont like Antony. He is not a type of winger Manchester United wants. Wingers like Nani, Cristiano Ronaldo and Beckham are the type of wingers this club need. We needs dribblers and speed stars not skillful players that can’t dribble a defender”-Sir Jim Ratcliffe has ordered Man Utd scout to monitor £43m ex-Real Madrid wonderkid to replace Antony with swap transfer possible

Manchester United are considering a transfer for Japanese talent Takefusa Kubo, who has thrived since departing Real Madrid. The club is looking for a replacement for Antony. The 22-year-old, who previously spent time at Barcelona’s academy and Real Madrid, joined Real Sociedad from the Bernabeu last season. At Sociedad, Kubo has made significant progress, scoring 15 goals and providing 13 assists in 67 appearances. United scouts have observed him at least seven times this season.

Antony has underperformed since his high-profile transfer from Ajax, prompting Erik ten Hag to consider alternatives. Sociedad, currently in the Champions League knockout stages, rejected a £26 million bid from Napoli in the summer, and Kubo is under contract until 2027. The Sun reports that Sociedad would consider a fee around £43 million for the versatile winger, who can play in various attacking positions. There’s also the possibility of United offering Antony on loan to facilitate the transfer.

Manchester United will continue to scout Kubo, including attending Sociedad’s recent goalless draw against Real Betis, where Kubo was named Player of the Match. However, any potential move is unlikely to occur in January due to concerns over Financial Fair Play. Consequently, a transfer might be postponed until the summer, especially as some of United’s wide forwards, including Anthony Martial and Jadon Sancho, face uncertain futures.

Barcelona’s Xavi praised Kubo earlier this season, describing him as a world-class player both with and without the ball. Kubo himself expressed his desire to remain influential and rise to the occasion when the team needs him.