Antoine Semenyo has reportedly made a decision regarding his next move ahead of the January transfer window, with Manchester City emerging as his preferred destination amid strong interest from several Premier League heavyweights.
The Bournemouth forward has attracted attention from clubs including Manchester City, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur after an impressive start to the season. Semenyo is expected to be one of the most in-demand players this winter, thanks in part to a £65 million release clause in his contract. The clause is set to become active on January 1, giving interested teams a 10-day window to trigger it and begin negotiations for the Ghana international.
The 25-year-old has been in outstanding form on the south coast, scoring eight goals in 17 appearances across all competitions. His performances have highlighted his value as a powerful and direct wide attacker capable of contributing goals, making him an attractive option for top clubs seeking to strengthen their attacking options.
According to GIVEMESPORT, Semenyo has informed interested parties that Manchester City would be his first choice should he leave Bournemouth in January. The forward is believed to be drawn by the opportunity to compete regularly for major honours and to work under Pep Guardiola in a team consistently challenging for domestic and European trophies.
Manchester City are understood to be searching for a wide attacker who can offer consistent goal output. While no official bid has yet been made, discussions are expected to progress before the January 10 deadline, with City keen to confirm the player’s intentions before stepping up their pursuit.
From a tactical standpoint, Semenyo would bring a unique profile to Guardiola’s squad. Although City already possess significant attacking depth — including Jeremy Doku, Phil Foden and Rayan Cherki, alongside creative talents such as Savinho and Omar Marmoush — Semenyo’s physicality, direct running and goalscoring threat from wide areas would offer a different dimension. With eight league goals already this season, he could help ease the scoring burden on Erling Haaland.
Manchester United have also explored a potential move and reportedly held talks earlier this week. However, Semenyo is said to be fully committed to City’s long-term vision. Despite comparable financial packages being discussed, United were unwilling to exceed their current wage structure. Tactical considerations, including the possibility of being deployed as a wing-back, are not believed to have played a role in his decision. United are now thought to be shifting their recruitment focus toward midfield reinforcements in 2026.
Liverpool have also been linked with the Ghanaian forward, particularly amid uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future under new manager Arne Slot. Semenyo has been mentioned as a potential successor to Salah, with former Liverpool striker Michael Owen previously backing him as a suitable replacement.
As the January transfer window draws closer, Semenyo’s future appears to be taking shape, with Manchester City firmly positioned as his preferred destination in what is shaping up to be one of the most closely followed transfer stories of the winter.
Source: Yen.com.gh
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