Erik ten Hag told Newcastle star is a better option for Manchester United than Antony

Paul Merson says he cannot understand why Manchester United are pursuing Ajax winger Antony over Newcastle attacker Allan Saint-Maximin.

The Reds have reportedly had a second bid for the Brazilian rejected as Erik ten Hag looks for an attacking reinforcement before deadline day. Antony is not training with the Ajax first team and has blasted his club for refusing to let him leave.

The Dutch champions do not wish to lose any more players this summer with boss Alfred Schreuder insisting that he doesn’t expect Antony to exit. Ten Hag lifted two Eredivisie titles alongside the 22-year-old during his time in Amsterdam.

READ MORE: Man United target Antony's behaviour was criticised before Ajax interview

He seems keen to spark a reunion at Old Trafford but Merson says he is better looking at Newcastle winger Saint-Maximin. “If I was Man United I’d take Saint-Maximin over Antony every day of the week,” he said speaking on Sky Sports.

“What this lad does, I know he doesn’t score a lot of goals and a lot of assists, but boy does he take that ball up the pitch. I think that (a transfer) might come with scoring goals.”

He added: “It makes me laugh how people are looking at Antony over Saint-Maximin, don't get it.”

Saint-Maximin bagged two assists in last weekend's 3-3 draw with Manchester City, having recorded five last season alongside five goals and scored a stunner against Wolves today. Meanwhile, Antony has already netted and assisted twice apiece this season following his 12-goal and 10-assist haul last term.

Describing his relationship with United boss Ten Hag last week, he said: "Erik has been super important to me. I am grateful to him and wish him all the best. I will always cheer for Erik after working so closely