Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has publicly advised his old club to secure the signature of Bournemouth's in-form winger Antoine Semenyo, despite competition from Manchester United and Liverpool.
Semenyo's Impressive Form Attracts Top Clubs
The 25-year-old Ghana international has been in outstanding form for Bournemouth this campaign, registering six goals and three assists in just 11 Premier League appearances. His performances have caught the attention of several top-flight clubs, with both Manchester United and Tottenham having failed with £50 million bids during the summer transfer window.
Despite signing a new five-year contract with Bournemouth after those rejected offers, Semenyo's future remains uncertain following revelations this week that his contract contains a £65 million release clause. This development means Bournemouth could potentially lose their star attacker when the January transfer window opens.
Chelsea's Crowded Attack No Deterrent
Chelsea strengthened their wide options significantly during the summer by acquiring Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens, while 18-year-old Estevao has made an immediate impact since arriving from Palmeiras after the Club World Cup. However, Cole believes Semenyo would still command an automatic starting position in Enzo Maresca's side.
In an exclusive interview with Paddy Power, Cole stated: "Knowing Chelsea, he might be too old! I'd have to check his age, but from a football perspective, if he's available and he wants to come, it's a no-brainer in terms of bringing him into the football club."
Cole acknowledged Chelsea's current transfer model might present financial considerations, but emphasised: "He'd be a welcome addition to the Chelsea squad, and he probably starts, because he's been superb for Bournemouth."
Bournemouth Manager Remains Unconcerned
Meanwhile, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has expressed little concern about the speculation surrounding his key player. Speaking at his press conference on Friday, the Spanish coach focused on immediate matters rather than transfer rumours.
"We are in November. Antoine is our player, he will continue being our player," Iraola stated. "In January, you can ask me about the market in January, but right now I'm not worried about the next markets."
He added: "It's something that especially you know that I hate to talk about in August, January, the moments when the market is open, but it is not one of those moments. It's November. I'm more worried about the situation of the players to play tomorrow."
The situation sets up a potentially fascinating transfer battle in January, with Chelsea now receiving strong endorsement from one of their former stars to enter the race for one of the Premier League's most productive wingers.
