The Antoine Semenyo transfer is starting to take shape after weeks of Premier League interest. Tottenham Hotspur have dropped out of the race despite pushing hard with a strong financial offer. That decision has narrowed Semenyo’s options and sharpened the focus on what comes next.
For a while, Tottenham felt like a serious contender. The interest was clear and sustained. Now, with them out of the picture, the situation feels more defined. Semenyo is no longer weighing a long list of possibilities. He is looking at fewer projects, but stronger ones, with January approaching and clubs keen to act early.
WHY TOTTENHAM FAILED TO CONVINCE
Tottenham did not approach this lightly. They made a genuine push and backed it with money and a clear proposal. Semenyo listened. Discussions progressed far enough for it to be taken seriously.
But money alone was not decisive. Semenyo is at a point in his career where role and direction matter as much as salary. He wants clarity on where he fits and how he develops over the next phase. Tottenham’s pitch did not fully satisfy that.
David Ornstein has since confirmed that Spurs no longer feature in Semenyo’s thinking. The forward has shifted his focus elsewhere. That shift also ruled out Arsenal, who have shown interest but only with a view toward a summer move. Semenyo does not want to wait that long. He wants certainty now, not another half-season of speculation. That preference has shaped the market quickly.
🚨🚨🎖️ Antoine Semenyo has politely rejected Tottenham Hotspur who were keen on signing him and were prepared to pay him a significant salary.
Semenyo is currently focusing on joining Manchester United or Man City. [@David_Ornstein] pic.twitter.com/dzT5TuM8j2
— HotspurReports. (@hotspurreports) December 21, 2025
LIVERPOOL REMAIN INTERESTED
Liverpool continue to admire Semenyo and have tracked him closely for some time. His versatility stands out. He can play across the front line, handle physical duels, and contribute without dominating the ball. Those traits fit Liverpool’s attacking profile well.
So far, however, their interest has remained measured. They have not pushed as aggressively as others. That may be deliberate. Liverpool tend to move when timing aligns, not simply when a player is available.
January complicates that approach. Injuries and squad depth can force decisions sooner than planned. Liverpool now face a question of timing rather than talent. Semenyo appeals, but acting now would mean stepping into a more crowded race.
CITY AND UNITED MOVE TO THE FRONT
Manchester City remain firmly involved. They view Semenyo as a tactical option rather than a marquee signing. His ability to cover multiple roles fits their model. City value flexibility and believe their system can elevate players over time, even if they do not arrive as guaranteed starters.
Manchester United have taken a different path. Their pitch has focused on responsibility and opportunity. Semenyo has been shown where he would play and how he could fit into the team. Ruben Amorim values his intensity and adaptability, and United believe he can grow into a central figure rather than sit on the fringes. That message has resonated and kept them competitive in the race.
THE ZIRKZEE FACTOR
United are also aware of the practical side of the deal. Squad space matters. Joshua Zirkzee has become part of that conversation. He has struggled to settle and no longer appears central to the long-term plan.
United have opened the door to a move if the right offer arrives. Talks with Roma suggest progress. If Zirkzee leaves, it creates flexibility, both financially and tactically. That could accelerate United’s approach as January draws closer.
WHAT SEMENYO’S CHOICE WILL SIGNAL
Semenyo’s decision will say a lot about what he values most at this stage. City offer trophies and structure. United offer trust and responsibility. Liverpool offer stability and a defined environment. Each path carries its own risk and reward. Tottenham offered money. Semenyo wanted more than that.
AUTHOR’S INSIGHT
This does not look like a chase for the biggest offer. Antoine Semenyo appears focused on playing time, development, and staying central to a project. Tottenham could not convince him on those points, and that seems to have made the difference. With January approaching, the choice now feels less about headlines and more about fit.
As featured on ManUNews.com