Tottenham Hotspur are preparing a sensational January swap deal that could see them land top target Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, with Dominic Solanke potentially moving in the opposite direction.
Major Transfer Shake-up Looms
According to recent reports, Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is keen to strengthen his squad during the upcoming January transfer window as Spurs push for Champions League qualification. The north London club have identified Bournemouth's in-form winger Antoine Semenyo as a primary target, with competition expected from several top Premier League rivals.
The Ghanaian international, who has impressed with his performances this season, has a £65 million release clause that becomes active in January. Tottenham had previously attempted to sign the 25-year-old during the summer transfer window, but Semenyo opted to sign a new contract with the Cherries that included this soon-to-be-activated clause.
Solanke Could Hold The Key
In a surprising twist, Tottenham might use former Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke as a makeweight in any potential deal. Solanke has been sidelined with injury since August and is reportedly not considered a central part of Frank's long-term plans at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The 28-year-old striker enjoyed a successful spell at Bournemouth before his £65 million move to Tottenham in summer 2024, which remains the Cherries' record sale. During his time on the south coast, Solanke scored 77 goals in 216 appearances, including 19 Premier League goals in his final 2023/24 season.
European Ambitions For Both Clubs
This potential swap deal could benefit both clubs significantly. Bournemouth, who have made considerable progress since Solanke's departure, are pursuing their own European ambitions and might view the returning striker as the prolific option needed to fuel their push.
With Evanilson spending much of the season injured and Eli Junior Kroupi still adapting to English football, Solanke could provide the proven goalscoring threat that Bournemouth require, especially if they lose Semenyo's creative output.
For Tottenham, securing Semenyo would add genuine quality to their attacking options as they seek to improve their home form and mount a serious challenge for Champions League qualification under their new manager.
While Solanke's market value may have decreased following his injury problems, his inclusion in a swap deal alongside a reduced transfer fee could give Bournemouth sufficient incentive to choose Tottenham as Semenyo's destination should multiple big clubs activate his release clause.
This potential transfer represents a fascinating subplot to the January window, with both clubs looking to strengthen their European credentials through what would undoubtedly be one of the month's most talked-about deals.