The January Transfer Saga Centred on Bournemouth’s Star Forward
This January transfer window’s defining story looks set to be the future of Antoine Semenyo. Manchester City are in advanced talks to sign the 25-year-old Bournemouth forward, whose £65m release clause is active only until around 10 January.
Sources indicate that four other Premier League clubs — Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Chelsea — have made enquiries, but City have emerged as the frontrunners, with reports suggesting Semenyo prefers a move to the Etihad Stadium.
Why Manchester City Are Pushing Hard for Semenyo
At £65m (£60m fixed plus £5m add-ons), Semenyo represents strong value for a Premier League-proven winger entering his prime. Pep Guardiola sees him as adding a new dimension to City’s attack as they chase leaders Arsenal.
This season, Semenyo has scored 8 goals and provided 3 assists in 16 Premier League appearances, directly involved in 11 of Bournemouth’s goals. His style — consummately two-footed, with strong dribbling (third-highest successful dribbles in the league) and vertical carries — offers something different from City’s current wide options like Jeremy Doku and Savinho.
Former England goalkeeper Rob Green noted: “He can drive forward with the ball vertically… He can do that something different Pep is looking for.”
Short-term factors include injuries (e.g., Oscar Bobb, Doku) and Omar Marmoush’s AFCON absence, while long-term, Semenyo’s availability suits City’s needs. Ghana’s failure to qualify for AFCON means no mid-season disruption.
Guardiola has long been an admirer, calling him an “extraordinary, extraordinary, extraordinary player” earlier this season: “His energy, his confidence, his movement — unbelievable. He doesn’t stop running… Players like him make this league special — always hungry, always brave.”
Since April, Semenyo has been involved in 16 Premier League goals, third only to Erling Haaland and Morgan Rogers.
Can Bournemouth Keep Their Talisman?
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is desperate to retain Semenyo amid a winless run, but the limited release clause window gives the club time to find a replacement if triggered. While a deal is not yet agreed, City’s progress positions them strongly to land the forward who could help sustain their title challenge.
