AFC Bournemouth is actively preparing for life after Antoine Semenyo by identifying Leicester City's exciting winger, Abdul Fatawu, as a prime candidate to fill the impending void.
Semenyo's Big-Money Departure Imminent
The Cherries are braced to lose key attacker Antoine Semenyo in the coming days. Manchester City is in a leading position to secure his signature, with Liverpool also monitoring the situation closely. The Ghanaian's release clause, valued at £60 million plus £5 million in add-ons, is set to expire around 10th January, with formal bids anticipated this week.
Fatawu Emerges as the Prime Target
In response, Bournemouth's recruitment team has swiftly turned its attention to the King Power Stadium. Abdul Fatawu has been a standout performer for Leicester since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon, capturing the attention of several Premier League clubs with his dynamic and thrilling displays during a challenging period for the Foxes.
His profile as a skilful, rapid left-winger capable of both creating and scoring goals makes him a direct like-for-like replacement for Semenyo. This season alone, the 19-year-old has notched four goals, including a spectacular long-range effort from inside his own half against Ipswich Town earlier this month.
Competition and Decision Time
Bournemouth's interest is not in isolation. Sunderland and Everton made enquiries for Fatawu last summer, while Leicester reportedly held out for a fee in excess of £30 million. Crystal Palace had also shown interest prior to his move to the Midlands.
While the South Coast club has also considered other options, such as Nottingham Forest's James McAtee, Fatawu is viewed as the most suitable successor. Bournemouth is expected to make a final decision on launching a formal move in the next few days as they weigh up their shortlist of potential targets.
This potential transfer saga highlights the ongoing recruitment strategy at the Vitality Stadium as they plan for a crucial phase of the season, aiming to replace a major asset without disrupting their attacking momentum.
