Liverpool are unlikely to try and hijack Manchester City's move to sign Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, with Pep Guardiola's side stepping up talks to secure his signature, according to Paul Joyce.
Semenyo's future has been the key topic of discussion heading into the January transfer window, with a Bournemouth exit feeling inevitable over the last few weeks. GIVEMESPORT sources have confirmed that there is a £65m release clause in his contract, which expires on January 10th, meaning we could see a departure in the early days of the transfer window.
GIVEMESPORT understands that Semenyo wants to join Man City, despite interest from a host of Premier League clubs, with the Etihad Stadium seeming like where he's going to end up.
Paul Joyce Shares Semenyo to Liverpool Update
Bournemouth attacker Antoine SemenyoAction Images via Reuters/Matthew Childs
According to The Times reporter Joyce, Man City have now stepped up their efforts to secure the signature of Bournemouth star Semenyo, and they are set to hold meetings with his representatives early this week. The reliable journalist claims that Semenyo wants to make a swift decision, and although reports have suggested that Liverpool could make a late move, Joyce confirms that there have been no new developments in terms of their interest.
Liverpool do retain an interest in the Bournemouth forward, but it appears that Man City remain in the driving seat for now. Joyce claims that City are the only club to have made contact with Bournemouth regarding Semenyo, with Liverpool seemingly taking a back seat.
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Liverpool are considering a loan move for PSG forward Goncalo Ramos, who could be a better option than spending £65m on Antoine Semenyo.
Liverpool's Priorities Should Lie Elsewhere
liverpool alexander isak
After Alexander Isak suffered a leg break, which is likely to keep him on the sidelines for a significant period of time, Liverpool should be in the market for a short-term option through the middle of attack. Hugo Ekitike is the only senior option in the centre-forward role, and if the Reds can find a six-month loan in the upcoming market, that could be the ideal solution.
The Merseyside club should also be looking to bring in another centre-back during the January transfer window, with Ibrahima Konate out of contract next summer. The French defender has also shown signs of inconsistency this season, so upgrading their defensive options would be beneficial.
Although Semenyo would improve Arne Slot's side, there are bigger priorities for Liverpool to reinforce when the window opens in a few days.