New development: Liverpool reach out to a Premier League outfit regarding a January deal for a forward

Liverpool have stepped up their chase for Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, with sporting director Richard Hughes personally driving talks for over two months, according to a reliable source on X.

Hughes, who spent years shaping Bournemouth’s recruitment setup before switching to Anfield, still has strong ties at the south-coast club — connections that now place Liverpool in pole position to secure the explosive Ghanaian attacker in January.

Insiders say the Reds are currently leading the race for Semenyo, who’s been one of Bournemouth’s standout performers in 2025. His form has attracted interest from several top Premier League sides, with the 25-year-old scoring six goals in ten league games this season.

Liverpool firmly interested in Semenyo

Liverpool view him as a high-upside signing capable of playing anywhere across the front line, with his adaptability seen as a key strength as the club prepares for changes in their attacking unit.

With Mohamed Salah set to depart for AFCON next year, the Reds see Semenyo as someone who can help fill the attacking void during the Egyptian’s absence.

Arsenal are also keen on the Ghanaian, but their path to a deal is far less straightforward.

Arsenal’s hurdle in the Semenyo pursuit

Although the Gunners are not short on funds, they are believed to be operating close to UEFA’s updated Squad Cost Ratio limits, which restrict spending compared to revenue.

Without significant sales in January, Arsenal risk breaching Financial Fair Play limits, making a move for Semenyo difficult unless they offload players first.

Liverpool, on the other hand, have room to manoeuvre financially and are ready to act fast if terms can be agreed.

Hughes’ knowledge of Bournemouth’s internal workings is reportedly helping negotiations, and while Bournemouth are open to selling, they are expected to demand full value for one of their key players.