Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has provided an update on the future of key defender Marcos Senesi, confirming that discussions over a new deal are ongoing but far from concluded.
Senesi's Contract Standoff and Summer Exodus
The Argentine centre-back, 28, is into the final year of his contract at the Vitality Stadium and will be eligible to speak with foreign clubs from 1st January. Reports suggest Senesi is planning to depart as a free agent when his current terms expire in June 2026.
Iraola is keen to retain the former Feyenoord star, especially after overseeing a major defensive overhaul last summer. The Cherries sold three defenders for a combined £150 million, with Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, and Illia Zabarnyi joining Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Paris Saint-Germain respectively.
"The most important thing is that he's playing very well," Iraola stated on Friday. "Both parties still have time regarding his contract situation - there are still seven months left. There is no doubt I want him to continue here."
Double Trouble: Semenyo Clause and Adams Injury Blow
Senesi may not be the only high-profile departure. Forward Antoine Semenyo has a £65 million release clause in his contract that can be activated before 15th January. Clubs including Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham, and Liverpool have been linked with the 25-year-old, prompting Bournemouth to scout potential replacements.
Adding to Iraola's immediate concerns is a significant injury to midfielder Tyler Adams. The US international suffered a torn MCL in the early stages of Bournemouth's 4-4 draw with Manchester United and is now facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
"Tyler is injured and has torn his MCL, so he will definitely be out for some time," Iraola confirmed. "From our previous experience with MCL injuries, it is normally around two or three months. It's a big blow because he is an important player for us."
Navigating a Critical Period
The coming weeks represent a pivotal period for Bournemouth. The club must navigate the possibility of losing Semenyo in January while attempting to convince Senesi to commit his future, all while compensating for the absence of a pivotal figure in Adams.
Iraola acknowledged the challenge of replacing Adams's unique qualities but pointed to internal options. "We do have options - Alex has been playing there and Lewis Cook is in his natural position there - but it's true that Tyler is difficult to replace," the manager added.
With Premier League rivals prohibited from reaching a formal agreement with Senesi until the summer, Bournemouth still have a window to negotiate, but the clock is ticking on retaining one of their defensive pillars.
