Liverpool could be ready to hijack Man City’s Semenyo move | OneFootball

Liverpool Weigh Semenyo Move as Man City Talks Accelerate Ahead of January Window

Liverpool are monitoring developments around Antoine Semenyo as the January transfer window approaches, with Manchester City currently further advanced in discussions for the Bournemouth forward. While no formal bid has been lodged by Liverpool at this stage, internal conversations have taken place as the club assess whether to enter what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive Premier League transfer battles of the winter.

Semenyo’s situation has gathered pace due to the activation of a £65m release clause at the turn of the year, a figure that places control firmly with the player and his representatives. Bournemouth are braced for interest, and those close to the process indicate that clarity is expected swiftly once the clause becomes live.

Semenyo Profile and Rising Premier League Stock

Semenyo’s emergence this season has been emphatic rather than incremental. Operating primarily from the right but capable across the frontline, the 25-year-old has delivered consistent end product in a Bournemouth side that has exceeded expectations. Nine league goals before the New Year underline his impact, with performances against elite opposition sharpening interest from clubs seeking immediate attacking reinforcement.

Liverpool’s recruitment team – according to The Mirror – view Semenyo as a profile that fits several of their attacking criteria: physical durability, tactical flexibility, and the capacity to operate in high-intensity pressing systems. Importantly, he is seen as a player ready to contribute now rather than one requiring a prolonged bedding-in period.

Those attributes have also resonated strongly with Manchester City. City’s interest has been ongoing for months, and discussions with Semenyo’s camp are understood to be at an advanced stage. Their appeal is obvious: a settled tactical framework, consistent title contention, and a squad where attacking rotation is both expected and productive.

Man City Position Strengthens as Talks Continue

Manchester City’s advantage lies in timing and clarity. Conversations with Semenyo’s representatives have progressed beyond exploratory stages, and there is confidence within the Etihad hierarchy that an agreement on personal terms is achievable should City decide to trigger the clause.

From City’s perspective, Semenyo offers tactical variety across domestic and European competitions, providing depth without compromising intensity. While City are selective about January recruitment, this is viewed internally as a market opportunity rather than a reactive purchase.

Liverpool are aware of City’s position but have not ruled themselves out. Senior figures at Anfield are weighing whether to formally engage, particularly given broader squad planning considerations and the balance between January investment and long-term strategy.

Liverpool Strategy and January Considerations

Liverpool’s approach to January remains measured. The club are reluctant to overpay unless there is a clear strategic fit, but Semenyo’s profile has prompted genuine debate. His ability to contribute immediately, coupled with Premier League-proven output, places him higher on the internal shortlist than many alternatives.

There is also an appreciation that January windows can define seasons at the margins. With Liverpool seeking greater consistency in the final third, Semenyo represents a low-risk adaptation to English football compared to overseas options.

That said, Liverpool will not be drawn into a bidding war without conviction. Should City move decisively, Liverpool’s involvement may depend on whether the player signals openness to multiple destinations. As matters stand, no definitive decision has been communicated, but the situation remains fluid.

January Timeline and Likely Resolution

All parties expect movement early in January. Semenyo’s camp are keen for a swift resolution to avoid prolonged uncertainty, and Bournemouth accept that his future may be decided within days of the clause becoming active.

For Liverpool, the coming week is critical. A decision on whether to formalise interest will shape not only their January business but also the competitive landscape of the title race. Manchester City remain in pole position, but until contracts are signed, Liverpool are positioned close enough to act should circumstances shift.

What is clear is that Semenyo’s next move will be one of the defining Premier League stories of the winter window, with implications extending well beyond Bournemouth.