City move accelerates as Semenyo deadline sparks January transfer drama

A decision point arrives fast

Antoine Semenyo is entering a pivotal stretch in his career, with the coming 48 hours expected to play a decisive role in shaping his immediate future. The Bournemouth attacker wants clarity before the turn of the year, mindful that uncertainty early in January can complicate both negotiations and preparation.

According to BBC Sport, discussions around Semenyo have intensified as the transfer window approaches, placing the player and his club under growing pressure to define a clear path.

Manchester City set the pace

Manchester City are currently the most advanced suitors. According to BBC Sport’s reporting last week, talks between Semenyo’s representatives and the Etihad club have reached an advanced stage.

Semenyo has a £65m release clause in his Bournemouth contract, and further discussions are scheduled over the next two days with the intention of concluding a deal. While no agreement has been finalised, City’s willingness to move early has put them in a strong position compared with their rivals.

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Rivals monitor developments closely

Liverpool remain attentive to the situation, particularly in light of Alexander Isak’s recent injury, though it is still unclear whether the club will escalate their interest into a formal approach.

According to BBC Sport, Manchester United, Tottenham and Chelsea have also made enquiries about the Ghana international. However, City are so far the only club to have made direct contact with Bournemouth. Liverpool’s interest is informed by sporting director Richard Hughes, who retains close professional ties to the south coast club from his time at the Vitality Stadium.

Bournemouth balance leverage and fixtures

Semenyo is keen to have his future resolved well before 10 January, when the release clause in his contract becomes inactive until the summer window.

Sources cited by BBC Sport indicate Bournemouth would prefer to retain the forward for their first two matches of 2026, against Arsenal on 3 January and Tottenham four days later, before sanctioning any departure. That stance reflects the club’s desire to maximise both sporting results and negotiating leverage.

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Career priorities shape the outcome

Semenyo turns 26 on 7 January, an age widely regarded as the beginning of a player’s peak years. Those close to him say his decision will be driven less by speed and more by substance.

According to BBC Sport, he is focused on joining a long term project that offers a realistic chance of competing for major trophies. Personal factors, including location and the impact on his family, will also weigh heavily, with the player determined to avoid a prolonged and destabilising transfer saga.

Sources: BBC Sport

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