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Antoine Semenyo to Man United transfer twist as fresh Adam Wharton update emerges

Manchester United have been credited with an interest in AFC Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, who they incidentally faced at Old Trafford on Monday night.

Eli Junior Kroupi celebrates with Man Utd-linked Antoine Semenyo.

Antoine Semenyo continues to be linked with a move to Manchester United.

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The January transfer window is right around the corner now and, for Manchester United, it could be yet another opportunity to strengthen in some key areas.

Ruben Amorim's team have shown signs of improvement this season, but work is still to be done if they want to eventually compete at the top, top level.

Midfielders are top of the club's agenda for the next few months, as plenty of links persist over a potential move for one of several high-profile stars who could play as a duo in the middle of the park.

Elsewhere, there have also been reports of interest in a few forward options, which could help finding a route to goal more easily, having already seen an improvement with the signings made this summer.

While that deals with their possible incomings, there are a few potential outgoings on the cards, as well, as some players look to get some game-time elsewhere.

So, with that said, here's a look at the latest Manchester United transfer links in the media, as well as a verdict on those proposed moves;

Antoine Semenyo race ramps up

Among the forwards who have been linked with a transfer this January is Antoine Semenyo, as Sky Sports report that United are showing an interest.

They aren't alone in eyeing the Bournemouth star, however, as it's claimed that rivals Manchester City are leading the race, while Tottenham and Liverpool are also involved.

Semenyo signed a new contract in the summer to keep him at the Cherries, but it included a £65m release clause that can be triggered this winter.

It must be activated by a certain point - giving the team from the south coast enough time to find a replacement - meaning clubs will have to be quick to get their offers in.

The Manchester Evening News says: "Antoine Semenyo would be a fine addition to the United squad, bolstering the forward ranks after a summer where there was already clear improvement made. The Bournemouth star is versatile and can finish with both feet, making him a threat on either side, regardless of what the team may need.

"There are two main concerns, being firstly whether United can afford to make a deal, but also whether it is the right one, given the priorities elsewhere in the team. However, this is clearly a market opportunity and one that would certainly give Amorim one of the strongest frontlines available in the division."

Adam Wharton to Real Madrid option

United have been linked with a move for England's Adam Wharton as a possible option to help add something to their midfield options moving forward.

However, according to Spanish publication AS, Real Madrid have the Crystal Palace man on their radar as a target for the coming months.

It comes as the England international continues to impress, while other options for United include Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba.

The Manchester Evening News says: "Links between Real Madrid and Adam Wharton should come as a bit of a worry to United, if the recruitment team are certain he's their top target for midfield. Los Blancos, despite their ongoing concerns over the future of their manager, are still performing at an elite level and so will always back themselves to land anyone they target.

"While United have plenty of other players they could go for, the market next summer is set to be dominated by midfielders, and Wharton will be the top choice for many."

Kobbie Mainoo transfer stance

Kobbie Mainoo continues to be linked with an exit, as his future remains a doubt at United, following a difficult start to the season so far. The academy graduate is yet to start a match in the Premier League this campaign, as pressure mounts over a resolution to the situation.

While the midfielder could look to make a move, radio station talkSPORT reports that United's hierarchy are not interested in a permanent sale during the January window.

It remains to be seen whether a loan move is possible, though, with a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad up for grabs still.

The Manchester Evening News says: "Kobbie Mainoo's situation at United is frustrating, as he's clearly stick in a bit of limbo at the moment. He was always going to find it tough to get in regularly ahead of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, but the lack of minutes overall is still a surprise. The academy graduate has plenty of quality, and to sell him would be a shame, so the club are making the right decision.

"The question is whether it's right by the player. Mainoo has his own future to think about, both in the short-term and the long-term, and it's still unclear if his own stance will impact the club's decision-making."

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