Ajax manager Alfred Schreuder has reiterated his desire to keep Antony at the club, amid strong interest from Manchester United.
The Brazilian winger was left out of matchday squad as the reigning Eredivisie champions beat Sparta Rotterdam 1-0 on Sunday afternoon.
United saw their £67m bid for the 22-year-old rejected on Friday, with new boss Erik ten Hag keen to re-sign the player that he brought to Ajax in 2020.
Schreuder says he wants Antony to stay, insisting Ajax are in a powerful position financially having already sold Lisandro Martinez to United earlier this summer.
‘I want Antony to stay. I am assuming that the club will not sell him. The money that is being thrown around these days is crazy. But I would not find it okay if we sell another player. We are in a powerful position, financially,’ he said speaking to ESPN.
Asked about what his feelings tell him in regards to Antony’s future, the 49-year-old was quick to point out the fact that Ajax will be playing in the Champions League this season, whereas United won’t be.
‘Yes, my feeling is good. I understand Antony. But you play for Ajax. We are playing Champions League football. I don’t think Manchester United are playing Champions League football.’
According to The Athletic , the Red Devils are considering putting together a fresh bid for Antony after seeing their previous approach rejected.
The Dutch champions are holding out for their valuation of €100million (£84.8m) for the former Sao Paulo wide-man, which may drive United towards a different target.
Erik ten Hag’s side have been exploring a potential deal with Chelsea for American winger Christian Pulisic – but, similarly to a lot of their deals this summer, have run into complications.
United contacted Chelsea last Wednesday regarding a loan for the USA international and have left those talks on hold while they finalise the £70m signing of Casemiro.
Chelsea were reluctant to allow Pulisic out on a temporary basis preferring to sell, yet they had relented slightly showing a willingness to discuss a potential loan if the 23-year old extended his contract first, so protecting their asset.
His preference, if he were to leave, would be to join a club that is playing in the Champions League but he is also happy to stay and fight for his place under Thomas Tuchel.