Manchester City have made their first major move of the January transfer window, securing the signature of Bournemouth's prolific forward Antoine Semenyo in a deal worth £62.5 million.
Etihad Bound Despite Late Liverpool Links
The 25-year-old Ghanaian international has committed to a five-year contract with the Premier League champions, choosing Pep Guardiola's project over rival interest from clubs including Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool. The transfer was finalised swiftly, with Semenyo undergoing a medical in Manchester on Wednesday.
This move comes just hours after former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp suggested the race for the player might not be over. Speaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp hinted at a potential twist, stating he had heard "it might not be the forgone conclusion that he's going to be having a medical at Man City." However, City's decisive action ensured the deal was completed without a late hijack.
Semenyo's Impressive Cherries Record
Semenyo leaves Bournemouth after a highly successful spell, having joined from Bristol City in 2023. He made 110 appearances for the Cherries across all competitions, establishing himself as a key attacker. Last season, he scored 13 Premier League goals and was on course to better that tally this term, with his dramatic injury-time winner against Tottenham in early January being his 10th goal of the current campaign.
His departure marks a significant sale for Bournemouth, especially as the player had only signed a new long-term contract in the summer, which was set to run until 2030.
What Semenyo's Arrival Means for Man City
Semenyo's arrival at the Etihad Stadium further bolsters an already formidable array of attacking talent. He will compete for minutes alongside the likes of Jeremy Doku, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, and the in-form Rayan Cherki. His signing could precipitate departures from the club's squad during this transfer window, with players such as Savinho and Oscar Bobb potentially seeking more regular football elsewhere.
For Pep Guardiola, acquiring a proven Premier League goalscorer in his prime represents a strategic boost as City aim to maintain their dominance at the top of English football and compete on all fronts.
