These clubs want to sign Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo: Here's why
What's the story
Manchester United and Manchester City are both interested in signing Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth. The Ghanaian winger has a £65 million release clause in his contract, which will become active on January 1. Semenyo's impressive performance at Old Trafford in Matchweek 16 of the Premier League 2025-26 season, has fueled further interest from top clubs. Bournemouth were involved in a classic 4-4 draw against Man United with Semenyo scoring for the Cherries. Here we analyze the details and stats.
Contract specifics
Semenyo's release clause details and potential impact
As per Sky Sports News, Semenyo's £65 million release clause is divided into a £60 million fixed fee and £5 million in add-ons. The clause won't be active for the entire transfer window, preventing a last-minute sale of the player. If he stays at Bournemouth, Semenyo's release clause will decrease in summer. Despite not actively seeking another forward in January, United are considering the opportunity to sign Semenyo at a set price next month.
Transfer implications
Financial considerations and potential bidding war
Despite their interest, United's biggest hurdle is financial. A £65 million fee could greatly impact their summer spending plans, especially since they prioritize signing a defensive midfielder. The club is hesitant to enter a bidding war for Semenyo with other top Premier League clubs as they don't want to compromise their ability to strengthen the midfield next summer for another attacker.
Player's stance
Semenyo's focus amid transfer speculation
Despite the transfer speculation, Semenyo's inner circle insists he is solely focused on training, fitness and match performance for Bournemouth, as per Sky Sports News. The south-coast club hopes to retain the Ghana international, whose country won't be at the upcoming AFCON but will face England at next year's World Cup. United head coach Ruben Amorim had earlier described Semenyo as a "special player" in his press conference ahead of Monday's draw with Bournemouth.
Information
Semenyo can be utlized as a wing-back at Man United
Semenyo can be utilized as a left-wing back at Man United. Patrick Dorgu was signed last January, but the youngster hasn't managed to nail down a place. This has led the club to play Diago Dalot, primarily a right-back, as a left wing-back.
Man City
What about Man City?
Manchester City's growing interest in Semenyo is understood to be driven directly by manager Pep Guardiola. The Spaniard wants to add a new dimension to his side's attack. Reports suggest that Guardiola is keen on a winger capable of consistently delivering goals from wide areas. Man City are well stocked in attack but adding Semenyo will hand them depth and quality in big games.
Stats
Semenyo: Decoding his Premier League stats this season
In 15 Premier League games this season, Semenyo has scored 7 goals and made 3 assists. As per Squawka Comparison Matrix (data by Opta), Semenyo has clocked 31 shots (excluding blocks) out of which 20 have been on target. He has hit the woodwork once besides creating 18 chances. He owns a passing accuracy of 76.92%. He has completed 21 lay-offs and 24 take-ons. The player has made 24 tackles in addition to winning 99 duels. He owns 68 touches in the opposition box.
Information
96 appearances in the Premier League
Overall in the Premier League, the player has recorded 96 appearances. He owns 27 goals and 10 assists. As per the Premier League official site, he has an xG of 20.14 and owns 415 touches in the oppositon box. He has rattled the post 7 times.
Do you know?
Tottenham and Liverpool have been linked as well
As per Sky Sports News, Spurs had earlier intensified their interest in triggering Semenyo's £65m release clause on January 1 and remain seriously interested. On the other hand, Liverpool have long been keen on the player. Meanwhile, Arsenal have also kept an eye on Semenyo's development. However, they aren't expected to make a move.