A three-way battle is intensifying among England’s top clubs for the signature of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, with the upcoming January transfer window set to be the stage for a major move.
Manchester United, Liverpool, and Manchester City have all identified the 25-year-old Ghanaian international as a key target. Sources close to the situation indicate that the player’s preference is currently a switch to Anfield, with the Etihad Stadium considered a strong alternative. This leaves the Old Trafford hierarchy with significant work to do to sway the attacker’s decision.
The mechanism for a transfer is clear: Semenyo’s contract contains a release clause valued at just under £65 million, a figure that incorporates various additional payments. This clause must be activated at the very start of January, creating a narrow window for action. While Tottenham Hotspur have also registered interest, they are viewed as outsiders in the pursuit.
Liverpool’s interest is driven by a long-term vision, with manager Arne Slot seeing Semenyo as a potential successor to the iconic Mohamed Salah on the right flank. Manchester City, despite the ongoing speculation surrounding Pep Guardiola’s long-term future at the club, have already initiated formal discussions with the player’s camp.
For United, the appeal is multifaceted. Manager Ruben Amorim, who first tracked Semenyo last summer, views him as a versatile asset capable of bolstering the squad in multiple positions. He is particularly seen as an option for the left wing-back role—a position where recent signings have struggled—or as an attacking midfielder. Amorim has publicly praised Semenyo as a “special” talent, highlighting his admiration.
A practical advantage for any suitor is the player’s immediate availability. Unlike several other African stars, Semenyo will not be participating in the Africa Cup of Nations next month, as Ghana failed to qualify, meaning he could integrate with a new club without delay.
The chase unfolds as all three clubs are in strong form. United, enjoying their best sequence of results under Amorim, sit sixth in the table, one place above Liverpool, while City are locked in a title race just two points behind leaders Arsenal. Securing Semenyo’s signature could provide a crucial mid-season boost in their respective campaigns.