Chelsea quietly ended their chase after learning that Antoine Semenyo is eyeing a move elsewhere.
Maresca’s Chelsea Made Early Moves For Antoine Semenyo Then Hit A Wall
Chelsea had done their groundwork on Antoine Semenyo and even reached out to his camp ahead of January. The Blues saw him as a strong fit for their attack. They think he is someone who could bring pace and power from wide areas. Talks were not advanced, but there was clear interest from Stamford Bridge club.
Fans also think their club needs a hungry forward who is ready to step up. Although, the transfer case changed fast. Behind the scenes, Chelsea felt hesitation from the player’s side. With that, the Blues put a pause on their move for the player.
For a club trying to reset its project, mixed signals were enough to force a rethink. Chelsea did not want another long chase that ends in doubt. They wanted clarity and commitment. They want to bring in a player who will be fully locked into the plan.
🚨🔵 BREAKING: Manchester City are progressing to complete deal for Antoine Semenyo in next days.
As revealed, City have been pushing in last 12h to accelerate in talks.
Semenyo indicated #MCFC as favorite destination despite Man United trying hard + Chelsea/Spurs out of race. pic.twitter.com/GOdijZDDas
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 23, 2025
City’s Pull Changed The Move
As details came out, Fabrizio Romano revealed that Semenyo favours a move to Manchester City. That single detail shifted the whole picture around his future.
City are flying, winning games and titles. In addition, they could offer new players a clear path to trophies. Chelsea know the gap at the top right now. Rather than chase a player already looking elsewhere, they chose to step away.
It was not panic or lack of belief, It was about control and timing. They want players fully sold on the rebuild, not distracted by other options. Walking away early saved a lot of time and effort. Now, they can focus for deals that truly fit their plan.
Author’s Opinion
Chelsea made a calm call in their transfer effort. Chasing unwilling targets only slows progress.
As featured on Chelseanews.com