Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has delivered a significant update on the future of star forward Antoine Semenyo, suggesting the player will be available for this weekend's clash with Arsenal despite intense transfer interest from Manchester City.
City Activate £65 Million Release Clause
The transfer saga surrounding Antoine Semenyo has intensified, with Manchester City reportedly moving to trigger a £65 million release clause in the Ghanaian international's contract. Talks between the Premier League champions and the player's representatives are understood to have progressed, with a potential five-year deal on the table for the 25-year-old.
Despite the swirling speculation of an imminent January exit, Semenyo has continued his professional duties at the Vitality Stadium. He featured in Bournemouth's midweek fixture against Chelsea and, according to his manager, remains firmly in contention for the upcoming match against Mikel Arteta's side.
Iraola's Firm Stance on Semenyo Future
Speaking to Sky Sports, Spanish coach Andoni Iraola made his position clear. "I think Antoine is performing very well. I expect him to be available also for the next game with us. And I hope he continues playing the same way," stated Iraola.
He acknowledged the external noise but focused on the player's form: "There is a lot of noise around him but my worry as coach is if he can keep the level of performance that he is having." This public declaration follows earlier comments where Iraola underlined his desire to keep his key man, labelling Semenyo a "massive player for the club" who contributes goals, assists, and vital energy.
Bournemouth's Replacement Dilemma
Iraola admitted the club is preparing for all scenarios in the January transfer window. "The club is working on things in case he leaves, but obviously it's impossible to replace someone like him. It's impossible, especially in the January market when nobody wants to lose good players," he conceded.
This admission has sparked links to several potential successors. Tottenham Hotspur's Brennan Johnson is one name reportedly admired, though Crystal Palace have already agreed a fee for the Welshman. Leicester City's exciting winger Abdul Fatawu is also said to be on Bournemouth's radar.
Semenyo, who joined from Bristol City in 2023, has become a pivotal figure on the south coast. He has made 107 appearances for the Cherries and is enjoying his most prolific season yet, with nine Premier League goals already this campaign, putting him on track to beat last season's tally of 13.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Semenyo's future lies in a title race with Manchester City or in continuing his impressive development under Andoni Iraola at Bournemouth.
