Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo has emerged as a major target for three Premier League giants, with Manchester United, Liverpool, and Manchester City all preparing for a January transfer battle.
Release Clause Sparks January Frenzy
The 25-year-old Ghana international, who scored his seventh Premier League goal of the season in Monday's thrilling 4-4 draw at Old Trafford, has a release clause in his contract. The Guardian understands the clause is valued at slightly less than £65 million, a sum that includes loyalty payments and agent fees. Crucially, this clause must be triggered early in the January window.
While Tottenham Hotspur have also registered interest, they are considered outsiders in the race for the former Bristol City player. The primary contest is between the Northwest's powerhouse clubs.
Liverpool Leading the Race for Signature
It is believed that Semenyo's personal preference is a move to Liverpool, with Manchester City seen as his second choice. This leaves Manchester United's head coach, Ruben Amorim, with a significant challenge to convince the player to choose Old Trafford.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reportedly intent on acquiring Semenyo as a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah. Meanwhile, Manchester City have already made contact with the player's representatives, despite ongoing speculation about Pep Guardiola's future beyond this summer.
Amorim's Plan for the "Special" Forward
United's interest is long-standing, with Amorim first expressing admiration for Semenyo last summer. Prior to Monday's match, the United boss described him as a "special" footballer. Amorim's vision is to utilise Semenyo's versatility, deploying him primarily as a left-wingback or a No. 10.
This tactical need is driven by Patrick Dorgu's struggles to impress since his signing last January, and Diogo Dalot being a natural right-back. Furthermore, United have lost attacking options Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo to the Africa Cup of Nations, but Ghana's failure to qualify means Semenyo is available for an immediate move.
United, who travel to Aston Villa this Sunday, are in strong form under Amorim, having lost just once in their last ten games. They currently sit sixth in the table, one place above Liverpool, while City are second, two points behind leaders Arsenal.
