Manchester United might have gotten the defensive midfielder they have been crying out for, but the Red Devils' summer spending spree appears nowhere near its end.
On Friday, the Premier League giants confirmed an agreement with Real Madrid for the transfer of Casemiro, the influential figure in Los Blancos' legendary midfield trio – alongside Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. The Brazilian cost Ten Hag's side an initial fee of $70M, with an additional $11M set to be paid in add-ons.
While this is a huge investment, Manchester United aren't stopping as they look to intensify their pursuit of Ajax sensation Anthony. Ten Hag's interest in the Brazilian is well known. The Dutch tactician coached the South American during his time with de Godenzonen and wishes to reunite with the winger at Old Trafford.
However, Ajax have resisted for the most part. The Red Devils recently bid $80M for the 22-year-old but that offer was turned down. Nonetheless, the English giants are expected to return with another offer for the Brazilian.
Anthony looks to be doing his part in forcing a transfer as the player refused to commit his future to the Dutch giants when grilled on the transfer rumors. When asked by De Telegraaf (as per the Sun) whether he can promise to stay this season, the Selecao talent said:
"No. To be honest, I can't.
"I can say that I want to make the right decision together with my family, agents and Ajax. God decides my future in the end.
"I am very happy at Ajax. I have a contract until 2025 and will give everything for this beautiful club with every second. I wear this shirt with pride.
"We are playing in the Champions League. I enjoy being here. I find it important that the atmosphere is good and that we can create a team. This is why I put a lot of effort into my team-mates.
"This is also a signal to the children: work hard, create friendships, you will achieve more together than alone.
"Thanks to Ajax I have become a more complete footballer.
"My focus is on football. I have put all of these matters in the hands of my agent."
And that's not all. A separate report from Football Insider claims that the 20-time English champions are also eyeing a move for one of football's most highly-rated right-backs. That man is none other than Achraf Hakimi, the PSG ace who only joined the Parc des Princes a year ago.
According to the aforementioned outlet, Ten Hag looks to prioritize the right side of his team, including the right-back position, and has identified the former Real Madrid man as the key target. However, convincing the Ligue 1 champions to sell is a tough ask, let alone the huge transfer fee they will likely demand.
