Manchester United are reportedly preparing a significant January move for Bournemouth's in-form forward Antoine Semenyo, with new manager Ruben Amorim considering a surprising tactical switch for the Ghana international.
United Ready to Trigger £65 Million Clause
The Red Devils are said to be willing to meet the £65 million release clause in Semenyo's contract, which becomes active from New Year's Day. United aim to outmanoeuvre Premier League rivals including Tottenham and Manchester City to secure the 25-year-old's signature.
Semenyo has attracted widespread attention following an impressive start to the 2025/26 season. He notably scored his seventh league goal in Bournemouth's thrilling 4-4 draw against United in mid-December, driving from the right channel before finishing expertly past goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
Amorim's Tactical Curveball: From Forward to Wing-Back
In a fascinating strategic twist, United's board and Amorim are reportedly fans of Semenyo's versatility and envisage using him not as a forward, but in an attacking wing-back role. The plan would see Semenyo operate on the left flank, with Amad Diallo taking up a similar position on the right.
This shift is not expected to disrupt the roles of Bryan Mbeumo, who would continue as a right forward, or Mason Mount, who has featured on the left of an attacking trio in three of the last four games. Matheus Cunha would remain the central striker.
The potential arrival would, however, impact Patrick Dorgu and Diogo Dalot, who have shared left wing-back duties this campaign. Amorim has rotated between the pair, suggesting he has not yet settled on a definitive first choice for the position.
Semenyo Open to Move as United Target Midfield Reinforcements
It is believed Semenyo is open to the proposition of a move to Old Trafford and the potential positional change as he contemplates his future. Amorim himself praised the player ahead of a recent press briefing, stating: "They have a special player in Semenyo. [He] can play both sides with both feet."
Beyond the forward, United are also keen to strengthen their midfield in the upcoming windows. Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson are among their primary objectives, though a major move may be delayed until summer.
The need for midfield reinforcements has been heightened by captain Bruno Fernandes' recent comments. In an interview with Canal 11, Fernandes admitted he would be open to a future move to Spain or Italy, and even a return to Portugal with Sporting CP, stating his continued stay at United depended on feeling "desired."
United invested over £200 million in their attack during the summer with the signings of Cunha and Mbeumo, but midfield has remained a priority area amid uncertainty over Casemiro's future.
