London club made initial checks for the player this week but are understood to be satisfied with their current attacking options
Manchester City have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Antoine Semenyo after Chelsea decided not to pursue a deal for the Bournemouth winger.
City are understood to be advancing discussions with Semenyo’s representatives ahead of the January window, with reports saying officials expect to conclude a deal to bring the Ghana international to the Etihad Stadium.
The 25-year-old has a £65m release clause that can be activated within the first two weeks of January, including a £60m fixed fee and £5m in add-ons.
Chelsea made initial checks earlier this week, asking about Semenyo’s salary expectations, but then they quickly stepped back. The London club have concluded they are satisfied with their current attacking options and have chosen not to compete for his signature. Chelsea have at least two options each on their left and right wings.
Liverpool and Manchester United remain interested and have tracked Semenyo closely, while Tottenham and Arsenal have also registered interest at various points. However, City are now seen as the most likely destination, with sources indicating that Semenyo favours a move to Pep Guardiola’s side if he leaves Bournemouth. He has already turned down approaches from Tottenham.
Semenyo has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League this season, scoring eight goals and providing three assists. His form has helped elevate Bournemouth and placed him firmly on the radar of the league’s biggest clubs.
Bournemouth are keen to keep hold of him, at least until the end of the campaign, but recognise the reality of the situation. The club have previously shown a willingness to sell key players when release clauses are met.
“I understand there is a lot of noise around Antoine,” Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola said. “If you ask me, I don’t want to lose him, definitely don’t want to lose him. But like we always say, every time the market opens, you never know what’s going to happen.
“He has had moments where he hasn’t scored and has still been very valuable for us. At the end, we demand not only the numbers, but he gives us a lot of things. It’s no secret he is a massive player for us.”
Semenyo joined Bournemouth from Bristol City in January 2023 and has since developed into one of the club’s most important players. He has scored 30 goals in 106 appearances for the south-coast side.
If a move does not materialise in January, Semenyo’s release clause is expected to become active again in the summer at an even reduced fee.
