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Manchester United are reportedly ready to launch a blockbuster attack for Antoine Semenyo in January to fend off interest from their Premier League rivals for the Bournemouth winger.
Under the eyes of the English elite
Semenyo, 25, has firmly established himself as one of the best players in England this year after a red-hot start with six goals and three assists in 11 games. Only Erling Haaland has more goal contributions this season.
It represents an improvement on last year’s already strong season as he looks set to enjoy the best season of his career, one that has taken him from League Two to the Premier League in five legendary years.
Antoine Semenyo 24/25 stats
| Competition | Performances | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 37 | 11 | 6 | 3210 |
| FA Cup | 4 | 2 | 1 | 330 |
| EFL Cup | 1 | – | – | 22 |
| Total | 42 | 13 | 7 | 3562 |
Statistics provided by Transfer market
The Ghana international, who heads to the African Cup of Nations next month, has been vital to Bournemouth’s excellent form despite Andoni Iraola losing numerous key players last summer.
The Cherries are ninth, but just four points off second place and level with United, while their underlying numbers put them much higher in the table.
Semenyo’s continued progression, demonstrated by a noticeable improvement in his efficiency in front of goal this season, as well as his excellent selection of physical attributes, makes him an attractive target for the biggest clubs in the division.
The Premier League has undergone a seismic shift in recent years with speed and power reigning supreme; a player must have a basic level of physicality to succeed in England, otherwise they won’t be able to impose themselves in games.
United’s failed signings of Jadon Sancho and Antony demonstrate this problem – and the summer signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo illustrate the recognition of this at Old Trafford. But Semenyo has also been a target for the Red Devils, with Ruben Amorim a big fan of the 25-year-old, who can play equally comfortably on the left or right – a quality that the Portuguese coach holds in high esteem.
And it is this admiration for a player, who combines speed, strength and productivity, that is driving United’s continued interest in Semenyo. There are reports that the club are considering a January transfer in a bid to test Bournemouth’s resolve.
However, they face a hot battle with their rivals – Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City are all mentioned as suitors, with the Merseyside club believed to be in charge – for the winger.
United plan to strike first
Sources close to the club indicate that United plan to “move quickly to beat the competition” by completing a deal in January, according to reports Caught offside.
The report states that the Red Devils are “increasingly willing” to go one step further in the winter despite the difficulties involved, as they believe it will prove key to beating their rivals.
The projects on offer at Anfield, the Emirates or Etihad may prove more attractive next summer, but if Semenyo is given the choice between Old Trafford and the Vitality Stadium in January, that could be enough to sway his decision.
A report passed by The People’s Person revealed Semenyo has asked to leave, but Bournemouth are adamant they “don’t want to sell” their prized asset. Caught offside claim the price will be “closer to £80 million” than the £65 million quoted to suitors in the summer.
United’s interest in Semenyo is undisputed. However, whether INEOS could pull off such an expensive deal in January with the club’s finances already under pressure is a completely different proposition.
Featured image Lewis Storey via Getty Images
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