Manchester United are gearing up for a potential January transfer battle to secure the services of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, following his impressive performance against them last week.
Old Trafford Audition Sparks United Interest
The 25-year-old Ghana international was on the scoresheet during Monday's thrilling 4-4 draw at Old Trafford, ending a personal run of seven games without a goal for the Cherries. That display is understood to have solidified United's interest in the versatile attacker.
Semenyo has enjoyed a prolific start to the 2025/26 season, netting six goals and providing three assists in Bournemouth's first eight matches. This follows a strong 2024/25 campaign that has now put him on the radar of several top Premier League clubs.
The £65 Million Release Clause and Rival Interest
Bournemouth have protected their asset with a significant release clause valued at £65 million. However, there is a crucial stipulation: any club wishing to activate it must do so by January 15. This deadline would give the south-coast side time to find a replacement before the winter window closes on February 3.
Interest in Semenyo is not exclusive to Manchester United. Reports suggest that Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with the player. It is believed that firm enquiries from these direct rivals could prompt United to accelerate their own plans and make a formal move next month.
Amorim's Plan for the "Special Player"
New United manager Ruben Amorim is said to be a keen admirer of Semenyo's tactical flexibility. One potential plan being discussed at Old Trafford involves utilising the former Bristol City star as a left wing-back, with Amad Diallo operating on the opposite flank.
Amorim publicly praised the player last Friday, describing him as a "special player" during his pre-match press conference. Semenyo himself is reported to be open to the possibility of a move to Manchester, though he remains focused on his current duties.
"I try to stay present as much as I can," Semenyo told Sky Sports recently regarding transfer speculation. "I'm enjoying my football here. If I'm not scoring goals, all of that goes away."
United are reportedly confident of winning the race for his signature, despite their lack of European football this season, as they lay the groundwork for another significant summer of spending.
