Sources: Liverpool eye four backup targets if Manchester City swoop for Antoine Semenyo
Manchester City are reportedly set to derail Liverpool’s pursuit of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo in a major January transfer twist. City are ready to activate the Ghanaian attacker’s £65 million release clause, a move that has taken Liverpool completely by surprise.
Semenyo has been a priority target for Arne Slot since the summer, with Sporting Director Richard Hughes leading the chase. The 25-year-old has been in excellent form, recording six goals and three assists in the Premier League, and was viewed as the ideal cover for Mohamed Salah during AFCON.
City’s sudden interest has now forced Liverpool to urgently rethink their transfer plans. According to sources speaking to CaughtOffside, the club has already launched a backup strategy featuring several short- and long-term options to ensure they stay competitive in all competitions.
Liverpool’s alternative shortlist
Kenan Yıldız (Juventus) – The highly rated 18-year-old is considered a long-term project. Having already broken a record once held by Alessandro Del Piero, he’s seen as one of Serie A’s top young prospects. Liverpool admire him greatly, but Juventus are unlikely to sanction a January sale.
Rodrygo (Real Madrid) – Liverpool are monitoring Rodrygo’s situation, with the Brazilian reportedly open to a Premier League move due to uncertainty over his starting role. Informal talks with his camp have taken place, but Real Madrid are not expected to approve any mid-season departure.
Iliman Ndiaye (Everton) – Viewed as the closest stylistic match to Semenyo, Ndiaye could be a realistic short-term fix. His pace and creativity suit Slot’s system, but negotiating with rivals Everton makes the move complicated, despite Liverpool’s strong interest.
Michael Olise (Bayern Munich) – The Bayern winger is Liverpool’s dream long-term target, potentially as a future successor to Salah. His skillset fits perfectly, but Bayern are unlikely to consider any offers before summer 2026, making this more of a future ambition.
Wider implications
Liverpool’s reaction to City’s attempted hijack will shape their January window. Hughes and Slot remain in close contact with FSG as they seek funds for a major attacking signing to maintain their push for the Premier League title and Champions League progress.
Should City secure Semenyo, it would intensify the off-field rivalry between the clubs, adding another layer to their ongoing battles in the transfer market.
For now, Liverpool are prepared to act quickly—whether that leads them to Yıldız, Rodrygo, Ndiaye, or Olise—to ensure they have a strong attacking lineup when Salah departs for AFCON.
