Malacia transfer: Man Utd outcast joining Antony at Betis? Whisper+ verdict

Tyrell Malacia transfer
Malacia joining Antony at Betis? Photo by Icon Sport

Latest developments

  • Real Betis want to sign Tyrell Malacia on loan from Manchester United.
  • The arrival of Patrick Dorgu at Old Trafford makes the deal possible.
  • Betis have already taken Antony on loan from United this window.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (2.5/5): Dorgu arrival imminent

Patrick Dorgu arriving at Man Utd has made a loan exit possible for full-back Tyrell Malacia, with Real Betis looking to sign a second United player this window.

This comes from the Daily Mail, who have an OK record on transfer rumours, but the timing of this and the arrival of the Lecce man gives it some plausibility.

Value (4/5): Regular shoppers in Manchester

United could complicate the deal by angling for an obligation to buy, but a straightforward loan would be good business for Betis, signing a Dutch international who should be hitting his prime at 25 years old.

Having got the Antony deal done, Betis clearly have a good relationship with United and will be confident of getting a decent deal.

Suitability (4/5): Betis system better

A long-term absentee with a knee injury, Malacia doesn't seem to have impressed Ruben Amorim, who played him further forward in his 3-4-3 system.

Midtable side Betis operate a flat back four, which will suit the Dutchman better as he seeks regular game time again.

Upgrade (3/5): Options at left-back

The former Feyenoord man will have a fight on his hands to get the regular starting spot at left-back, as Betis already have two summer arrivals jostling for the position; Romain Perraud and Ricardo Rodriguez.

Malacia has the potential to usurp them both, fitness and form pending.

Logic (3/5): Why do Betis need him?

Malacia could benefit from time away from Old Trafford, but a move somewhere with less competition for his position may be preferable.

Betis must have concerns with their current options, otherwise they wouldn't be chasing a short-term deal. However, one United flop in the shape of Antony is already enough…

Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25

A move in the next few days looks likely for Malacia. A switch to Los Verdiblancos is far from ideal, but it is the safest bet for now.


Writer and commentator whose words have appeared in World Soccer Magazine, MUNDIAL and OneFootball, and whose voice has been heard on Flashscore, calling everything from the Olympic basketball final to the UEFA Conference League. Long-suffering Reading fan.