Manchester City have completed a major January transfer, securing the signature of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo for an initial fee of £62.5 million. The 26-year-old Ghana international has signed a long-term contract at the Etihad Stadium, committing his future to the club until the summer of 2031.
Aiming for the Title Race
Speaking after the deal was confirmed on Friday, Semenyo immediately set out his ambitions, stating his intention to help propel Pep Guardiola's side back into contention for the Premier League crown. City currently sit six points behind leaders Arsenal with 17 games of the season remaining.
"It's going to be a challenge to get into the title race but I'm ready and I'm ready to be part of this journey," said the forward. He admitted the move was "only just sinking in" after a career built on perseverance, adding: "I've had to work very hard to get to this point and I'm over the moon it's done."
Transfer Details and Career Path
The complex deal sees Bournemouth potentially receive a further £1.5 million in add-ons, while a 10% sell-on clause has been inserted for any future profit City make on the player. The Cherries, who signed Semenyo from Bristol City for £10m, must also pass 20% of their profit from this sale to the Championship club.
Semenyo's path to the Champions League has been unconventional. He honed his skills during loan spells at Bath City and Newport County before breakthroughs at Bristol City and then Bournemouth. His form this season has been exceptional, contributing 10 goals and three assists in just 20 Premier League appearances, a key factor in attracting City's interest ahead of rivals Liverpool and Manchester United.
Ready for the Guardiola Challenge
The powerful forward, known for his long-throw expertise, will now work under one of the game's most demanding managers in Pep Guardiola. He joins a club determined to return to winning ways after a trophyless campaign last season.
Reflecting on the resilience needed to reach this pinnacle, Semenyo credited his support network: "I've had to be a strong character. Emotionally and mentally, I've had to get really strong... It's made me the man I am today: strong, fearless and ready to attack the world."
He marked his Bournemouth farewell in perfect fashion, scoring a late winner against Tottenham on his 26th birthday this past Wednesday. Semenyo could make his City debut as soon as Saturday in the FA Cup fourth-round tie against Exeter City.
