The transfer window hasn’t even opened yet, and Antoine Semenyo’s future is already shaping up to be the main talking point in January. The Bournemouth ace chose to remain on the south coast following interest over the summer, penning a new contract at the start of the season. However, this always seemed like a temporary fix, especially after a £65million release clause in his contract was revealed.

With nine goals in 17 appearances for Bournemouth, the Ghanaian is in high demand and looks set to move when 2026 begins. The striker reportedly wants a deal finalised at the start of the month, with Manchester City leading the chase and also keen to conclude a deal swiftly. However, Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham are also said to be interested. We have been asked who Semenyo should join next month, or whether he would be better off staying with the Cherries and Andoni Iraola…

Andy Dunn

Firstly, Semenyo and Bournemouth need to act while the iron is still hot. Granted, Semenyo has scored in his last three Premier League matches, but none of these goals resulted in a win, and this streak followed seven games without a goal.

Semenyo has also gone ten Premier League games without an assist. The £65million release clause will be met in this January transfer window, but if the Ghanaian remains at Bournemouth, there’s no guarantee that this figure would be seen as good value come summer.

A January transfer could be the ideal move for 26-year-old Semenyo, whose career has been solid but not spectacular. The prospect of joining Manchester City is undoubtedly appealing, yet a switch to Manchester United might prove more beneficial if their interest proves genuine.

At City, he would have to navigate Pep Guardiola‘s unpredictable selection process – a challenge that hasn’t always worked out for players like Jack Grealish.

Moreover, unless Mohamed Salah departs, securing a starting spot at Liverpool could also prove difficult for Semenyo. While competition exists at Old Trafford too, it presents an exciting project where Semenyo could potentially play a central role rather than being just another option.

Jeremy Cross

Semenyo faces a significant decision. One certainty, however, is his need to leave Bournemouth and display his talents on grander stages.

This rules out a move to Manchester United, a club known for squandering talents like his in recent years.

Stepping into Mo Salah’s shoes at Liverpool would be a daunting task, considering the Egyptian’s remarkable achievements. Furthermore, Liverpool are currently navigating a period of considerable uncertainty under Arne Slot.

This leaves Manchester City as the most suitable destination for Semenyo. Despite having to work hard for regular starts under Guardiola with no guarantees, it seems the best fit for him.

However, he would have the opportunity to learn from one of the best managers in the business and potentially win trophies.

Sam Meade

Semenyo’s choice to remain at Bournemouth over the summer appears to be a wise decision, particularly when considering the struggles of former colleagues like Milos Kerkez at Liverpool. His release clause makes him an achievable target, but if he could negotiate to stay with the Cherries and move for the same fee in the summer, that would be my recommendation.

Mid-season transfers are always risky, lacking the benefit of a pre-season to adapt to new tactics.

Moreover, waiting a few months allows Semenyo to assess the situation at various clubs. If Salah is indeed set to depart, then perhaps a move to Liverpool becomes more appealing.

Manchester City are another potential destination, but he’d need to accept not playing every game. So, if I were in his shoes, I’d choose to stay put for now.

John Cross

In my opinion, Semenyo should head to Manchester City and become a true superstar. There’s nothing quite like being desired, pursued and celebrated – especially when it’s Guardiola who wants you on his team.

What a chance for one of the Premier League’s top wingers. He’s ambidextrous, can play on either wing, has a strong personality, is a leader and scores crucial goals.

This lad has it all. His performances for Bournemouth have been outstanding, and I was surprised that more clubs didn’t pursue him last summer.

However, the reason he should opt for City over Liverpool, Manchester United and others is the feeling of being desired. The sense that he will be provided with an exceptional stage to perform by the Premier League’s top manager, leading a team on the upswing.

Of course, there will be competition for spots. But City have shown interest in him despite having a wealth of talent like Jeremy Doku and Savinho.

In my opinion, he surpasses Savinho. It’s intriguing that Semenyo renegotiated his contract and Bournemouth knew that including a clause would leave them exposed.

The uncertainty has undoubtedly affected Bournemouth – but this only emphasises the player’s quality.

Scott Trotter

Bournemouth and Semenyo have been gearing up for a January departure since the Cherries star penned his new contract, so now seems the right time for a move. However, mid-season transfers don’t always lend themselves to wise decisions.

Semenyo isn’t short of admirers and there’s plenty of uncertainty. Where Liverpool and Manchester United will end up come season’s end is anyone’s guess, and for Semenyo to depart the south coast, silverware and European football will likely be high on his list.

So, I can see why Manchester City appears to be the player’s preferred destination. While immediate playing time may not be guaranteed, the chance to earn a Premier League winners’ medal could be within reach.

Semenyo’s adaptability could well put him in the sights of Guardiola, offering a chance to learn from one of football’s most revered managers. While some may question a move due to uncertainty around Guardiola’s future, it’s worth noting that Ruben Amorim and Arne Slot have also faced their share of instability recently.

Neil McLeman

Do Manchester City truly need Antoine Semenyo?

Or is their interest in the Ghanaian forward more about preventing their title rivals from securing the Premier League’s top player from a non-European club this season?

Guardiola has splashed the cash in recent transfer windows, with summer acquisition Rayan Cherkhi now shining as City enjoy an eight-match winning streak. The system and players are clicking.

Liverpool might be in the market for a Mo Salah replacement this January – though Marc Guehi could be a smarter purchase six months before his contract ends. Arsenal, having already brought in Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke to bolster their wide options, can’t keep opening their wallet.

A move to City would be a fantastic opportunity for Semenyo, but history offers cautionary tales of clubs making big late-season purchases. Malcolm Allison famously broke the club record by paying £200,000 for Rodney Marsh when City were four points clear at the top in March 1972, only to finish fourth.

Aston Villa made a blunder in purchasing Tony Cascarino in March 1990. In February 1996, Newcastle acquired Faustino Asprilla for £6.7m when Kevin Keegan’s side were nine points clear at the top of the table, only to finish four points behind Manchester United.