Semenyo, under contract with Bournemouth until 2030, has an $87 million USD release clause valid from 1/1 to 10/1. Manchester City is currently the only club to have officially contacted Bournemouth regarding this clause. Semenyo's representatives are expected in Manchester today to finalize personal terms, with discussions anticipated to progress quickly ahead of the transfer window opening on 1/1.

Semenyo reportedly spent several days considering his future before the Christmas break and prioritizes a long-term move to Manchester City. However, British newspaper Sportmail reports that Liverpool has long admired Semenyo and is now seriously considering entering the race.

Antoine Semenyo (left) challenges Milos Kerkez during the Bournemouth vs. Liverpool Premier League match at Anfield, Liverpool, England on 15/8. Photo: AP

Liverpool's Sporting Director, Richard Hughes, previously worked at Bournemouth. He approved the recruitment of left-back Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth in summer 2025 and is now looking to continue poaching talent from his former club. With Alexander Isak facing a long-term injury, Mohamed Salah playing in the Africa Cup of Nations, and his future uncertain, Liverpool aims to strengthen its attack, viewing Semenyo as a suitable option.

Semenyo is currently third in the Premier League top scorers list this season with 9 goals, behind Igor Thiago (11 goals) and Erling Haaland (19 goals). Born in 1999, he is a versatile attacking player, capable of playing on the wing or as a central striker. He is often deployed on the right flank at Bournemouth, utilizing his speed, strength, and ability to penetrate the penalty area.

Semenyo's football career had a challenging start. The Ghana striker underwent numerous unsuccessful trials at London clubs such as Arsenal, Tottenham, and Millwall. At 15 years old, he was rejected by Crystal Palace after an eight-week trial and considered giving up his dream of becoming a professional player. A turning point came when coach Dave Hockaday convinced Semenyo to join the youth program at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College. His rapid progress attracted the attention of Birmingham City, Crystal Palace, and Bristol City before he officially signed with Bristol City's academy in 2017.

After joining Bristol City's first team, Semenyo had loan spells at Bath City, Newport County, and Sunderland before Bournemouth permanently signed him in 2023. There, he developed into one of the Premier League's top strikers, scoring 31 goals in 107 appearances across all competitions.

According to Sky Sports, Man Utd, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Tottenham had previously expressed interest in the Ghana international. Chelsea contacted Bournemouth last week but quickly withdrew from negotiations, citing sufficient attacking depth. Man Utd and Tottenham have also shifted their focus to other targets.

By Hong Duy (according to Daily Mail, Sky Sports)