Liverpool are set to edge out Man City in the race for Antoine Semenyo, with an underlying factor giving them the advantage.
Liverpool and Manchester City are both seen as strong contenders to land Antoine Semenyo, but it’s the Reds who arguably need the Bournemouth winger far more right now.
Semenyo has started the 2025/26 season in excellent form, producing nine goal contributions in 14 appearances across all competitions.
Liverpool’s right flank needs help
Liverpool currently lack a real attacking threat on the right side. While Mo Salah’s dip in form is part of the issue, the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold has also affected the Egyptian’s output. When Salah isn’t scoring, his reduced defensive contribution becomes more noticeable — something that wasn’t a problem last season when he hit 29 league goals.
This makes Football Insider’s update even more interesting as the January window approaches. Despite the recent 2-0 win over a poor West Ham side, Slot’s team still feel far from stable — and that performance came with Salah dropped to the bench.
How does Semenyo stack up?
Salah is still a top-level creator, ranking highly in chance creation among Premier League wingers. But Semenyo’s numbers show why he’s attracting interest:
xG: Semenyo 0.38 / Salah 0.32
Non-penalty xG: Semenyo 0.26 / Salah 0.25
xA: Semenyo 0.23 / Salah 0.15
Chances created: Semenyo 1.15 / Salah 2.01
Successful dribbles: Semenyo 1.77 / Salah 0.92
Where Semenyo stands out is his defensive work:
Duels won per 90: 6.47 (Semenyo) vs 2.51 (Salah)
Recoveries per 90: 5.39 (Semenyo) vs 2.77 (Salah)
Liverpool wouldn’t be signing him purely for goals — his off-the-ball intensity and defensive contribution could give the right flank a new dimension.
Why are Man City interested?
Pep Guardiola reportedly sees Semenyo as a player who can help City evolve the profile of their wide options. But while City’s interest is strategic, Liverpool’s need is much more urgent.
If Liverpool are serious about strengthening in January, Semenyo should be a top priority — and that urgency may give them the edge over Man City in the race for his signature.
