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Antoine Semenyo's future is set to be a hot topic in the January transfer window.
The Bournemouth forward has been on fire this season, scoring six goals and providing three assists in the first six Premier League games. Two of those goals were scored against Liverpool on the opening night, as Bournemouth fought back to draw level at Anfield, only to lose 4-2 in the final moments.
Despite not having scored or assisted since October, the 25-year-old remains a player of interest. On Monday, it was revealed that the Ghana international has a £65 million ($85M) release clause, fuelling further speculation about his future. Semenyo signed a new contract with Bournemouth in July, which was supposed to keep him at the club until 2030.
However, Liverpool and Manchester United could challenge Bournemouth's determination to keep him this winter, with Tottenham also said to be interested, reports the Mirror. This wouldn't be the first time Semenyo has been linked with one of the Big 6.
Bournemouth 'accepts' Antoine Semenyo fate
Bournemouth has reportedly "reluctantly accepted" that it may not be able to prevent Semenyo from leaving as early as January, according to The Athletic, despite its desire to keep him until at least the end of the season.
The report revealed details of his $85M release clause alongside Bournemouth's acknowledgement that an exit could materialize in the next six weeks.
Crucially, the prospective purchaser — whether domestic or international — must trigger the clause by a specified deadline to provide Bournemouth with a fortnight to secure a replacement.
During a recent discussion, Bournemouth's general manager Tim Bezbatchenko confessed he would find it difficult to prevent Semenyo from joining an elite outfit, specifically referencing Liverpool.
"When a club like Real Madrid, Liverpool, PSG come in and they're competing for Champions League positions, who are we to say, 'No, you can't go, you can't fulfil your dream,'" Bezbatchenko said on the Business of Sport podcast.
"No it wouldn't be like that for all clubs because not everyone is Real Madrid. But there is an opportunity and everybody wins right? I think that's what we're trying to find, this commonality where everybody can win."
Man Utd factor
Given the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, plus the pursuit of players such as Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, and Adam Wharton, United's strategy clearly focuses on securing Premier League-tested talent.
This approach explains why Ruben Amorim allegedly dined with Semenyo in London towards the conclusion of last season to evaluate his personality. Old Trafford executives Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox are also rumored to have engaged in discussions with Bournemouth, with United prepared to shell out £55M ($72M).
However, The Transfers Podcast suggests that Semenyo turned down their approach upon learning that United planned to offer him less than their other targets.
Liverpool outlook
Despite a $600M spending spree aimed at revamping their attack just a few months ago, the Premier League champions are still on the hunt for new additions. Numerous reports suggest that Liverpool are monitoring the 25-year-old, who made a move to Bournemouth from Bristol City for $11M in 2023.
On the face of it, Semenyo might struggle to secure a spot in Arne Slot's team, but their performance this season indicates that a proven goalscorer could be just what they need. But is another hefty investment feasible within the same financial year?
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