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• Manchester City are in advanced talks and emerge as frontrunners to sign Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth in January 2026.
• The 25-year-old Ghanaian forward prefers a move to City, prioritizing trophy ambitions over other suitors.
• Semenyo’s £65m release clause activates for the first 10 days of January, with Bournemouth open to a loan-back until season end.
• Rivals including Liverpool (accelerated by Alexander Isak’s injury), Manchester United, Tottenham, and Chelsea have shown interest, but several have cooled or withdrawn.

The Latest on Semenyo’s Potential Move

Manchester City have taken a commanding position in the race for Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo as the January transfer window approaches. Sources indicate positive progress in talks, with the 25-year-old favoring Pep Guardiola’s project for its proven path to major trophies.

Semenyo, entering his prime years, seeks a platform for sustained success. Financial packages from interested clubs remain comparable, leaving sporting factors decisive. Family considerations and a swift resolution also influence his thinking.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola acknowledges the speculation but emphasizes Semenyo’s commitment: “He’s very committed to the team, and I hope we can keep him.” The club accepts vulnerability to offers meeting the clause, potentially negotiating a season-long stay for the player.

Release Clause Details and Timing

Semenyo’s contract, extended in July 2025, includes a £65m release clause active only in early January—protecting Bournemouth from late-window disruption. The fee slightly decreases in summer, but immediate activation favors buyers now.

This structure stems from retaining Semenyo amid summer interest. His form—eight goals and three assists in 16 Premier League games this season—justifies the valuation.

Rival Interest and Withdrawals

Multiple Premier League giants pursued Semenyo:

• Manchester United cooled after sensing his City lean.
• Chelsea enquired but withdrew, content with depth.
• Tottenham explored but rank as outsiders.
• Liverpool monitored closely, with Isak’s fibula fracture potentially accelerating pursuit for attacking reinforcement.

City’s need for wide threat—adding pace and directness alongside Erling Haaland—aligns perfectly with Semenyo’s attributes.

Manchester City’s pursuit of Antoine Semenyo represents one of January’s most intriguing sagas. The Ghanaian’s breakout campaign—direct running, goal threat from flanks, and versatility—makes him a premium asset.

Joined Bournemouth from Bristol City in 2023, Semenyo has flourished under Iraola, contributing significantly to survival and mid-table pushes. His international pedigree with Ghana adds appeal.

City seek to bolster attack amid title chase across fronts. Guardiola values Semenyo’s counter-attacking prowess, potentially offsetting reliance on Haaland. A deal could prompt outgoings like Savinho or Oscar Bobb.

Liverpool’s situation adds intrigue: Isak’s months-long absence (post-surgery fibula fracture) strains resources, with Salah at AFCON and Gakpo recovering. Semenyo’s homegrown status aids registration.

United prioritize elsewhere, Chelsea stand pat, Tottenham shift focus. Bournemouth brace for departure but seek replacement time.

Semenyo’s decision—expected soon—balances ambition, stability, and lifestyle. At 26 in January, timing feels pivotal.

This transfer highlights window dynamics: clauses forcing early moves, multi-club races, injury contingencies. City’s momentum suggests resolution favors them, delivering Guardiola a dynamic addition.

Semenyo’s potential City switch underscores his rise, promising excitement for fans whichever destination prevails.

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