Liverpool Looms as a Late Threat in Manchester City’s Antoine Semenyo Pursuit

Manchester City could face a last-minute challenge in securing Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, as new reports suggest Liverpool may enter the race for the Ghanaian forward.

Until recently, it appeared clear that City and Manchester United were the two leading contenders for the 26-year-old, with Chelsea stepping away after preliminary inquiries. City, however, have accelerated talks, with sporting director Hugo Viana holding direct discussions to ensure the transfer progresses swiftly ahead of the January window.

According to BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel, Semenyo is eager to complete his move to Manchester City by January 1, citing the opportunity to work under Pep Guardiola and compete for major trophies as his primary motivation. Bournemouth, meanwhile, would prefer to retain their star forward for crucial fixtures against Arsenal and Tottenham before his £65 million release clause becomes active on January 10.

Despite the advanced nature of City’s negotiations and the player’s clear preference, MailSport’s Jack Gaughan reports that Liverpool could now emerge as serious suitors. Anfield sporting director Richard Hughes is said to be considering a move for Semenyo, driven by the club’s long-standing admiration for his Premier League output and concerns over Mohamed Salah’s future and Alexander Isak’s injury situation.

Liverpool’s potential entry introduces uncertainty, but Manchester City remain in a strong position. With Semenyo’s preference leaning towards joining Guardiola’s squad and City having already conducted detailed discussions, the Blues hold a significant advantage. Prompt action to formalise terms and activate the release clause could render Liverpool’s window for intervention extremely narrow.

While Bournemouth would ideally keep Semenyo until early January, the player is reportedly pushing for clarity and a quick conclusion. Any hesitation on City’s part could give Liverpool a chance to intervene at the final moment, creating a tense race in the final days before the transfer window opens.

Ultimately, Manchester City’s ability to conclude the deal swiftly will determine whether they can secure one of their priority January targets and avoid a last-minute transfer scare, keeping Guardiola’s attacking options well-stocked for the remainder of the season.

Key Takeaways

• City and United were leading contenders for Semenyo, but Liverpool may now challenge.
• The player prefers Manchester City due to Guardiola and title ambitions.
• Bournemouth would like to retain him for key fixtures until the release clause activates.
• Rapid formalisation of terms is critical to prevent a late Liverpool swoop.

Conclusion

Manchester City appear to be in the strongest position to secure Antoine Semenyo, with the player himself favouring a move to the Etihad. However, Liverpool’s potential late entry highlights the unpredictable nature of transfer windows and the importance of swift action. Should City act decisively, Guardiola’s side could bolster their attacking options significantly ahead of a crucial second half of the Premier League season.

FAQ

When does Antoine Semenyo’s release clause become active?

January 1–10, 2026, at a fee of £65 million.

Why is Liverpool considering a move now?

Concerns over Mohamed Salah’s future and Alexander Isak’s injury, coupled with long-standing admiration for Semenyo, have prompted Anfield to contemplate a late entry.

Does Semenyo want to join Manchester City?

Yes, he has indicated a clear preference to work under Pep Guardiola and compete for trophies at City.