Antoine Semenyo, the Bournemouth player, is in a race against time as he hopes to have his future resolved by 1 January. With only 48 hours left, the player's future hangs in balance as discussions about his departure reach an advanced stage.
Last week, BBC Sport reported that Manchester City was making significant strides towards securing Semenyo's services. The player has a £65m release clause and it appears that City is ready to meet this hefty price tag. Further discussions between all parties involved are scheduled over the next two days with an aim of finalising Semenyo's move to Etihad.
However, until pen meets paper on a formal contract, nothing is certain about where Semenyo will be playing next.
Liverpool eye on Semenyo
Liverpool has also shown interest in signing the Ghana international following an injury suffered by their star player Alexander Isak. Despite Manchester City leading the race for Semenyo’s signature, well-placed sources indicate that Liverpool still retains interest in acquiring him once the transfer window opens on 1 January.
The Anfield club joins four other sides - Manchester United, Tottenham and Chelsea - who have enquired about this promising talent. As of now though, only City has made formal club-to-club contact with Bournemouth regarding a potential deal for Semenyo.
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes' close ties with Bournemouth could potentially influence proceedings given his previous work at Vitality Stadium.
Decision looms
Semenyo wishes for his future to be decided well before 10 January when his release clause mechanism expires until summer. There are indications that Bournemouth would prefer to retain him for their first two games of 2026 against Arsenal and Tottenham before sanctioning any departure.
As he approaches his 26th birthday on 7 January – a time many consider the prime of a footballer's career – Semenyo is keen on joining a club that can provide him with the most suitable project to compete for major trophies long-term.
The location and impact on his family will also play significant roles in his decision-making process. It is understood that he does not want this transfer saga to become a drawn-out process, adding further pressure to resolve matters quickly. Antoine Semenyo's future remains uncertain as we approach the new year. With Manchester City leading the race but Liverpool still showing interest, it will be interesting to see where this talented attacker ends up. One thing is certain though - Semenyo wants his future resolved swiftly and decisively.
