Antoine Semenyo to Liverpool - 3-man shortlist, transfer battle, release clause

With the January transfer window rapidly approaching, Liverpool is anticipated to enter the market.

The Reds have endured a difficult campaign this season, with doubts emerging over Arne Slot and his ability to address the issues plaguing the squad. This comes despite a summer spending spree, with numerous marquee signings failing to make an immediate impression during their opening months at Liverpool.

January is seen as a chance to rectify some of these problems, with multiple targets already surfacing ahead of the window. One such player is Antoine Semenyo, who is emerging as a genuine target for Liverpool in the coming months. So, with that in mind, here's an examination of the latest developments regarding Semenyo's potential switch from Bournemouth...

Three-man shortlist

Liverpool is poised to act swiftly in the January transfer window, as numerous positions require attention before it closes in February.

Reports have indicated that the Reds are keen on Semenyo, as they seek a winger capable of making an "immediate impact," with his displays at Bournemouth certainly indicating he could deliver precisely that.

This is alongside a center-back, with Marc Guehi once again identified as a primary target, plus a potential new striker signing, subject to available options.

Release clause

While the Cherries are eager to retain Semenyo for the remainder of the campaign, they may find themselves unable to prevent Liverpool from securing his signature.

According to The Athletic, this is because the winger's contract contains a £65 million ($85 million) release clause that becomes active from January onwards.

However, this clause must be triggered by a specific deadline to allow Bournemouth sufficient time to source a replacement. This means the Reds may need to move quickly in the transfer market to complete the deal before competitors can intervene.

Transfer battle

While Liverpool is demonstrating significant interest in Semenyo, it is not alone in monitoring the winger ahead of January.

Sky Sports reports that Premier League rivals Manchester City and Tottenham are also tracking the Bournemouth talent closely.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has faced questions regarding Semenyo's future, particularly whether the player will remain at the Vitality Stadium beyond the January transfer period.

The Spanish coach remained dismissive when addressing the speculation, telling journalists: "We are in November, Antoine is our player, he will continue to be our player.

"In January, you can ask me about the market. But right now, I am not worried about the next market. I am not worried about the situation. In January, we will talk about whatever happened, the players we need."

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