Manchester City are in a strong position in the battle to secure the Premier League forward’s signature.
Manchester City are said to have moved into pole position in the chase for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, with TEAMtalk reporting that the champions are willing to trigger the Ghana international’s £65 million release clause.
The 25-year-old has been one of the Premier League’s standout attackers this season, performances that have not gone unnoticed across the division.
Semenyo’s combination of pace, power and productivity has made him a highly sought-after figure, with Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and City all tracking him ahead of the January transfer window.
Pep Guardiola is understood to be a long-time admirer of the forward’s energy and flexibility, believing he could be deployed anywhere across the front line or used as a high-impact option in decisive matches.
City ready to move ahead of rivals
Those close to the situation suggest City are prepared to act swiftly once the window opens, with a formal approach potentially made within the opening days of January.
Covering the £65m clause would not be an issue for City, and personal terms are also thought to be straightforward, with Semenyo open to testing himself at the highest level under Guardiola’s guidance.
Liverpool remain firmly in the picture, having monitored Semenyo closely amid continued uncertainty over Mohamed Salah’s future and possible interest from the Saudi Pro League. The Reds view the Bournemouth attacker as a ready-made option should Salah depart.
Tottenham are also showing serious interest. With Spurs pushing for a top-four finish, Thomas Frank is keen to add more direct attacking threats, and the club is believed to be lining up an opening bid.
Semenyo’s rise has been striking. After a mixed debut campaign, he has thrived this season, establishing himself as one of the league’s most effective forwards.
He has registered six goals and three assists in all competitions, while also ranking highly for successful dribbles and progressive carries in the Premier League.
At present, City appear best placed to secure his signature, leaving Liverpool and Spurs needing to act decisively. Bournemouth are not actively looking to sell but could be persuaded if the release clause is met.
Although Semenyo is reported to favour a move to Liverpool, the appeal of joining a Manchester City side competing with Arsenal for the Premier League title could yet prove decisive.
