Liverpool are among the clubs that have previously explored a deal for the Bournemouth forward
Antoine Semenyo could be a target for the “big” Premier League clubs next summer after it emerged that the Bournemouth winger’s new contract includes a release clause.
The 25-year-old Ghana international signed a five-year extension in the summer, spurning advances from Tottenham, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool. But his blistering start to the season, with six goals and three assists in seven league games, has reignited transfer speculation.
Sources close to Bournemouth say the release clause inserted as part of Semenyo’s improved deal has not been disclosed by the club. But it is believed to be close to the £70m valuation clubs were bidding for him during the last transfer window.
Bournemouth’s secrecy around the figure is deliberate, with the expectation that higher offers will arrive for the winger.
Liverpool could be open to another wide forward next summer. After the sales of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez in the summer and the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, the club brought in only Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak.
The talented Rio Ngumoha has signed a first professional contract and Federico Chiesa looks like he could have a future at the club, but the former is still only 17 years old and the latter has had problems with injuries.
Semenyo has been on Liverpool’s radar for some time and was heavily linked to the club last summer. The forward scored twice against them on opening day to bring his side level from two goals down, although the Reds ultimately won through late goals from Mohamed Salah and Chiesa.
The Ghanaian’s six goals have supported Bournemouth’s great start to the campaign. The Cherries sit fourth with 14 points after seven games played.
Semenyo said: “We’ve been riding high for a little bit. I think the bar has been set quite high. On the whole it’s been a good start to the season, definitely.
“We want to be humble and not get too big-headed. We take it easy game by game. But we’re pleased with our start and the players are giving everything to keep it going and to continue it.”
