Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo has reportedly made a decisive choice about his future, with his sights firmly set on a blockbuster move to Premier League champions Manchester City.
The Transfer Tug-of-War for a Cherries Star
The 25-year-old Ghana international has become one of the most coveted attacking talents in the top flight following a series of impressive performances on the south coast. His form has sparked a major transfer battle, with Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea all credited with serious interest in securing his signature.
Despite signing a new contract with Bournemouth as recently as July 2025, a significant clause was included in the deal. This agreement paves the way for Semenyo to depart the Vitality Stadium for a fixed fee of £65 million at the start of 2026, putting elite clubs on high alert.
Semenyo's Clear Preference for Pep Guardiola
According to a report from The Athletic, while several suitors are in the mix, Semenyo's personal preference is clear. The player's ambition is to join the ranks at the Etihad Stadium and work under the guidance of legendary manager Pep Guardiola.
This development indicates a significant coup for Manchester City in the ongoing transfer race, potentially seeing them beat their local rivals United and other Premier League giants to a key target. The January window now looms as a critical period, with clubs aware of the substantial but defined release clause that will become active shortly thereafter.
What This Means for Bournemouth and the Premier League
For Bournemouth, the situation is a double-edged sword. While they have managed to retain their prized asset for longer with the new contract, the presence of the £65m clause almost guarantees a major departure is on the horizon. The potential fee would represent a monumental piece of business for the club.
Should the move to Manchester City materialise, it would mark a monumental step in Semenyo's career, placing him within one of world football's most dominant squads. It also signals City's intent to continue strengthening their attacking options, even as they maintain their position at the pinnacle of English football.
