Real Betis CEO 'cautiously optimistic' of permanently signing Man Utd winger Antony

This, despite the player's loan deal from United not including an option for a permanent transfer.

The 25-year-old winger has enjoyed a positive spell in Spain since his January move, which followed a challenging first half of the season at United. Antony has thrived at Betis, and Alarcon now feels more hopeful about the prospect of a longer stay, stating, "When we initially discussed bringing Antony in January, I saw his future here as more distant. But now, after seeing how well he's adapted, I'm more optimistic about him staying."

While Alarcon acknowledged the difficulty of securing a permanent move, given Antony's high-profile 85 million pounds transfer from Ajax in 2022, he remains cautiously positive. "It's going to be tough because Antony is still a Manchester United player, and his financial terms are what they are. But I am optimistic," he said.

Alarcon also pointed out that retaining Antony on loan for another season could benefit both Betis and United. "With the 2026 World Cup coming up, Antony wants to play regularly to secure his spot. United, on the other hand, would want to see his value increase," he explained.

At United, Antony struggled to find his best form, scoring just 12 goals in 96 appearances. However, since his move to Betis, he has been much more effective, netting four goals and providing four assists in just 13 games. He has also settled into LaLiga life, recently commenting that he has "found himself" at Betis.

Although Antony hasn't played for Brazil since 2023 and has only scored two goals in 16 appearances for the national team, his time in Spain could be crucial for both his personal development and his international future.

As Betis continues to push for European competition, currently sitting sixth in LaLiga, they will face Polish side Jagiellonia Białystok in Thursday's Conference League quarter-final first leg, with Antony's role in the team growing ever more significant.