Manchester City have surged ahead of Liverpool and Manchester United in the closely-contested pursuit of Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, according to reports circulating through the English football landscape. The Ghanaian forward has garnered considerable interest after a series of impressive performances for the Cherries across the last few seasons.
This season, Semenyo has demonstrated his versatility across the front line, contributing seven goals and three assists over 15 Premier League outings under Andoni Iraola’s stewardship, cementing his status as a hot commodity during the January transfer window. Despite splashing over £400 million in the summer, Liverpool have shown a strong interest, and yet they currently face a battle from the formidable Manchester City in securing Semenyo’s signature.
Both City and their city rivals, Manchester United, are now in the fray, with Tottenham and Arsenal also expressing varying degrees of interest. In a boost to potential suitors, Semenyo will be available through January as Ghana did not qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Trusted transfer aficionado Fabrizio Romano shed light on the matter recently on his YouTube channel, stating that Tottenham are making aggressive strides, while both Manchester giants have initiated conversations to gauge the player’s situation, particularly considering his £65 million release clause.
Romano remarked, “Antoine Semenyo’s situation is really heating up. Tottenham have genuine and strong interest and are being very aggressive. But the final decision will depend on the player. In the last 48 hours, both Manchester United and Manchester City made contact to understand the situation. The price is around £65 million.”
Meanwhile, talkSPORT have now confirmed that City have entered into discussions with Semenyo, potentially making significant strides in acquiring the 25-year-old talent before the January window commences. Despite Liverpool also showing interest, their priority appears to be reassessing their squad amid the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Mo Salah’s future at Anfield.
Nevertheless, Arsenal might come into the equation if they’re able to offload a winger, although indications suggest a quieter window is expected from the Gunners.
Semenyo, heralded for his performance in Bournemouth’s recent 4-4 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford, continues to impress his manager. Iraola commented, “Antoine is playing well. He’s been a threat for us, showing personality and winning duels. His contribution extends beyond goals, it’s about team performance.”
As the January window looms, the focus sharpens on Semenyo’s next move, with City seemingly nudging past their Premier League adversaries in this transfer saga.