Manchester United are actively shaping their strategy for the upcoming January transfer window, with manager Ruben Amorim addressing speculation around one high-profile target while a new midfield name emerges.
Amorim's verdict on 'special' Semenyo
Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo has been heavily linked with a move away from the Vitality Stadium when the market reopens. The Ghana international, who signed a new contract last summer, is reported to have a £65 million release clause that becomes active in January.
Manchester United were among the clubs interested in the player before his contract renewal, prompting questions to Amorim about a potential revival of that interest. While the United boss praised the 25-year-old's qualities, he effectively cooled the rumours.
"They have a special player," Amorim said of Bournemouth. "They have many good players but they have a special player in Semenyo. [He] can play both sides with both feet."
However, when directly asked about a possible deal, he added: "No, it’s not the case. I think there is a lot of special players in the league... I think he is a special player."
Surprise £40m midfield target identified
While a move for Semenyo appears unlikely, United's search for midfield reinforcements has taken an interesting turn. According to reports, Bournemouth's Tyler Adams has been discussed internally as a potential signing.
The 26-year-old USA international is valued at around £40 million, making him a more affordable option compared to other linked midfielders like Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton or Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.
Adams has been a key figure for Andoni Iraola's Cherries this season and has previously spoken of his admiration for the Premier League atmosphere, specifically citing a visit to Old Trafford.
"I played against Manchester United at Old Trafford during Covid with RB Leipzig," Adams recalled. "That was the first time I walked into Old Trafford and I was like, my dream is really to play in the Premier League because this is what it's about right here."
United's January transfer window context
The January transfer window represents a crucial mid-season opportunity for Amorim to bolster his squad. United's significant summer spending was focused on a new attacking trio of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, while goalkeeper Senne Lammens was also brought in.
Despite that investment, the squad is still seen as needing strengthening, particularly in midfield where an unlikely pivot of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes has been used frequently. The club's primary objective remains securing a Champions League spot after missing out on European football entirely last season.
With Amorim distancing the club from a big-money move for Semenyo, attention may now shift to more pragmatic targets like Adams, as United look to build a squad capable of sustaining a top-four challenge in the Premier League.
