Ghana head coach Otto Addo believes the Bournemouth forward is ready to take the next step amid transfer interest from Premier League giants
Antoine Semenyo before an AFC Bournemouth game
Antoine Semenyo has been linked with a move to Manchester United
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Ghana manager Otto Addo has claimed Manchester United-linked Antoine Semenyo is ready to "take the next step". Ruben Amorim's side have been credited with interest in the Bournemouth forward and the 25-year-old's international manager has talked up a high-profile move.
The Athletic previously revealed that the Cherries were growing increasingly resigned to parting ways with the forward in January when his £65million release clause becomes active. United have been linked with a possible move for the Ghana international in the forthcoming transfer window.
The forward has enjoyed an excellent campaign, fuelling transfer rumours, having netted six times and provided three assists across 13 Premier League appearances.
Addo feels it is inevitable that Semenyo will secure his big-money transfer with United among the top-flight clubs interested.
"He has done very well at Bournemouth, but with all the respect for Bournemouth and what they're doing, surely it is natural for him to take the next step," he told The Athletic.
"Whether its in the winter or summer, it is a difference question but it won't make a difference for us. I'm looking forward to him showing more of what he can to the world."
Sky Sports have also confirmed that Manchester City hold an interest in Semenyo. Tottenham attempted to lure the forward to north London during the summer transfer window but were unsuccessful in their pursuit as he penned fresh terms at the Vitality Stadium.
Although Bournemouth suffered significant losses in the transfer market, with players like Dean Huijsen departing for Real Madrid and Milos Kerkez moving to Liverpool, they successfully kept hold of manager Andoni Iraola and winger Semenyo, with both continuing to excel.
"I've grown so much at the club, both on and off the pitch, and I'm really happy to have signed ahead of returning for pre-season," said Semenyo after putting pen to paper on a five-year contract.
"From the fans to the staff and my teammates, I can't speak highly enough of the people around the club.
"It's a great place to be and I'm excited to get back to Bournemouth and continue the hard work with the new season just around the corner."
Following his 11-goal haul last campaign, Semenyo found the net twice in their season opener against Liverpool before Arne Slot's team struck late to avoid embarrassment after throwing away a two-goal advantage.
In the meantime, United were reportedly interested in Semenyo during their search for attacking reinforcements.
Ruben Amorim's team signed Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko as part of their strategy to boost their attacking prowess.
It's reported that Semenyo's £65m release clause has a deadline, which is designed to give Bournemouth enough time to find a suitable replacement.