Antoine Semenyo would reportedly prefer to move to Liverpool rather than Manchester United if he decides to leave Bournemouth during the January transfer window. The winger has excelled on the south coast this season, with a host of Premier League clubs chasing his signature.
Semenyo joined Bournemouth from Bristol City just under three years ago and has gone on to bag 29 goals and 13 assists in 105 appearances for the Cherries. He has been one of the most exciting attacking players in England this term, contributing seven goals in 15 Premier League appearances. And his performances helped his team climb to second position in October, although they had slipped to 13th ahead of this weekend’s round of matches.
Semenyo is said to have a release clause in his Bournemouth contract, which can be activated in early January. The clause was revealed last month and was believed to be set at the value of £65million.
But, according to The Guardian, the clause can actually be triggered for slightly less than £65m, with the sum including loyalty money and agent payments.
United are said to be vying with Liverpool and Manchester City to prise the 25-year-old away from the Vitality Stadium.
And the report explains that the player would prefer to head to Anfield, with a transfer to Manchester City currently his second choice.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot is keen to take Semenyo to Merseyside as a successor to Mohamed Salah, who took aim at the Reds after failing to make it onto the pitch during his side’s 3-3 draw with Leeds earlier this month.
The Citizens have also made contact with the Bournemouth star and his representatives. And Semenyo’s decision should not be affected by the future of Pep Guardiola, with recent speculation suggesting the Spaniard could leave the Etihad Stadium next summer, a year before his contract expires.
Meanwhile, United boss Ruben Amorim is pursuing the Ghana international in an effort to strengthen his side’s options at wing-back and in attack. The Portuguese coach is said to want the player to operate as a left wing-back or at No. 10 should Semenyo agree to move to Old Trafford.
Tottenham are also believed to be interested in signing the talented attacker but are said to have a slim chance of landing him.
Semenyo netted his first goal since the start of October on Monday evening as Bournemouth drew 4-4 with Manchester United in a Premier League thriller. He was the joint-third-highest scorer in the Premier League this season ahead of Saturday’s matches.