Manchester United have intensified their interest in Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo, with reports indicating the club made exploratory calls regarding the forward within the last 48 hours.
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The Ghana international has been in sensational form this season, terrorising Premier League defences with his blistering pace and physicality. After 16 games, only the prolific Erling Haaland (17) and Igor Tudor (11) have scored more goals than Semenyo's impressive tally of seven, to which he has added three assists.
This outstanding output has inevitably attracted the attention of England's top clubs. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the situation is "really heating up" ahead of the January window. It is believed that alongside United, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur are all monitoring the player's availability.
The Crucial £65 Million Release Clause
Central to the speculation is a specific clause in Semenyo's contract with the Cherries, which runs until June 2030. The deal includes a release clause set at £65 million, which is reportedly active for the first two weeks of January. This figure will drop to £50 million at the season's end, adding urgency for any club wishing to secure his signature this winter.
Romano, in an update on his YouTube channel, confirmed the recent flurry of activity. "This week, again, Manchester United and Manchester City called to understand the situation of Semenyo," he stated, noting the calls took place between Monday and Tuesday. He added that Tottenham have shown "very aggressive" interest, while Liverpool made enquiries back in November but are assessing their options, potentially linked to Mohamed Salah's future.
Player Power and Amorim's Admiration
Despite the financial and tactical considerations for the buying clubs, Romano stressed that the final decision will rest with the 24-year-old himself. "The final decision is with the player, more than money, more than FFP, it's the player deciding here," he emphasised.
Semenyo gave a timely demonstration of his quality on Monday night, scoring a brilliant equaliser for Bournemouth in their thrilling 4-4 draw at Old Trafford. When asked about the forward beforehand, United head coach Ruben Amorim was coy on transfer links but effusive in his praise, labelling Semenyo a "special player".
With the January transfer window fast approaching, the battle for one of the Premier League's most in-form attackers is set to dominate headlines, with Manchester United now appearing to take concrete initial steps.
