Premier League standout attracts elite clubs
Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth has become one of the breakout stars of the Premier League season. He currently ranks third in the league’s scoring chart and also sits high in the assists list. His impressive performance at Anfield, where he scored twice against Liverpool, has drawn interest from top Premier League sides including Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham, and Manchester United.
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Amorim once met him over dinner
Semenyo’s balanced ability with both feet and direct attacking style made a strong impression on Manchester United, especially after he scored home and away against them last season. During the summer, Ruben Amorim even met Semenyo for dinner in London to understand his personality, though United ultimately chose Mbempa for £71m—more expensive than Semenyo.
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Ideal role in a 343 setup
In Amorim’s preferred 343 system at Manchester United, Semenyo would fit naturally on the right-sided No 10 position. He can also operate on the left, where he has played more frequently this season, and even has the versatility to cover as a wingback—one of Amorim’s most valued traits in attacking players.
Some fans speculated about Semenyo playing as a left wingback, but that scenario is unrealistic. Amorim will not use wingers on both wingback roles, as it would completely destabilize the team’s defensive structure.
Fits Ratcliffe’s recruitment profile
Young, Premier League-proven, hard-working on and off the ball—Semenyo matches the profile Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants in new signings. He also meets Amorim’s standards for work rate and tactical flexibility.
Since Ghana failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, Semenyo would not be absent during that period—another reason United fans linked him as cover for Mbempa, Amad Diallo, and Mazraoui.
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Game-time concerns for United
Even if United did sign him, managing playing time among Semenyo, Sesko, Mbempa, and Cunha would be difficult. Amorim’s 343 system has only three attacking spots, meaning at least one high-value signing must sit on the bench. A £60–70m rotation player would be considered a luxury problem.
Release clause details finally exposed
Sky Sports UK revealed Semenyo’s release clause: £60m fixed, plus £5m in bonuses, totaling £65m. However, this clause is only active for a short period during the January transfer window to give Bournemouth enough time to sign a replacement.
Despite this, Manchester United are highly unlikely to move for him in January, especially when Amorim’s priority remains signing a new midfielder.
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His dream club is not United
United also cannot rely on the “childhood dream” narrative—Semenyo is an Arsenal supporter. He said:
“I am an Arsenal fan. My job and my preference don’t conflict. Facing Arsenal feels great. I grew up watching them, and of course I want to play for a big club, but I must prove myself first.”
At 25, a move to a top Premier League side seems inevitable, but whether it is the right long-term choice remains unclear. Bournemouth’s system under Iraola suits him perfectly. Only Liverpool have produced more fast-break shots this season, and Semenyo excels in quick transitions and exploiting chaotic defensive moments. No player has scored more counterattack goals this season.
Could he struggle at a big club
Playing for a top-tier team means facing deeper defensive blocks, which will test Semenyo’s creativity in tight spaces. His strength and technique suggest he could adapt, but the challenge would be far greater than at Bournemouth.
He has denied requesting a January transfer and feels grateful to Bournemouth. Though he will eventually move on, he insists he will not force an exit.
Many believe Liverpool, where he could become Salah’s long-term successor, is his ideal destination. Arsenal—his boyhood club—have shown no interest, as Arteta already has plenty of wingers.
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