Liverpool set to beat Premier League rivals in the race to sign forward | OneFootball

Liverpool close to signing versatile attacker who rejected Manchester United in the summer

Rising Interest In Semenyo Ahead Of January

Liverpool appear to be closing in on a deal that could reshape their attacking options heading into the second half of the season. Caught Offside report that the Reds are now frontrunners to sign Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, a player who “rejected £50m moves to Manchester United and Spurs last summer” before signing a new long-term contract with a £65m release clause that activates in January.

Photo: IMAGO

The story is shaped by Liverpool’s need for reliable output across the forward line, with Arne Slot searching for a figure capable of injecting pace, unpredictability and direct running into a frontline that has lacked fluency at key moments this season. Semenyo’s growing reputation has made him one of the Premier League’s most sought-after attackers, with his blend of physicality, work rate and two-footed threat appealing to multiple top clubs.

Photo IMAGO

Liverpool’s Advantage In Transfer Talks

What gives Liverpool the edge, according to the report, is sporting director Richard Hughes and his longstanding connections with Bournemouth. Direct contact has already been established and Liverpool feel they are well placed to negotiate quickly once the window opens. One insider quoted on X stated, “Breaking: Antoine Semenyo rejected £50m moves to Manchester United and Spurs last summer,” highlighting that Liverpool were not only ahead of their rivals in the current pursuit but may have benefited from Semenyo’s previous choices.

Arsenal remain interested, but their need to sell before buying places Liverpool in a stronger financial position. The report also notes Semenyo’s preference for Anfield, a factor that could prove decisive.

Tactical Impact And Slot’s Immediate Needs

Liverpool’s attack has lacked the consistency required to navigate a demanding fixture schedule. The departure of Luis Diaz left a glaring hole on the left, while Cody Gakpo has yet to reproduce last season’s influence. Mohamed Salah’s imminent AFCON absence compounds the problem.

Photo: IMAGO

This is where Semenyo’s appeal intensifies. His versatility allows him to play across all three attacking roles, offering immediate cover on either wing or centrally. His explosive speed, powerful carrying and instinctive movement in transition align with Slot’s desire for forwards who can press aggressively and stretch defences. As Caught Offside emphasise, Semenyo “offers a timely solution”, particularly at a moment when Liverpool’s squad depth is being stretched.

A £65m release clause is substantial, but Liverpool have shown before that when the profile fits their tactical model, they move decisively.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This feels like the perfect January move. Semenyo has the raw attributes supporters adore: power, pace, relentless pressing and the ability to play on either flank. As soon as the report surfaced, many fans will have joined the dots between Slot’s system and what Semenyo brings. He looks like a modern Liverpool forward, the kind who suits high tempo and constant movement.

The fact he rejected Manchester United and Spurs in the summer adds even more appeal. It suggests ambition and confidence, and there is something satisfying about Liverpool stepping in with a clearer project and stronger direction. At a time when Arsenal need to sell before they can act, Liverpool finally feel like the club pushing from the front rather than reacting late in the window.

What excites fans most is how seamlessly he could cover for Salah during AFCON. Liverpool have struggled in previous years when their talisman has been away, but Semenyo’s profile means the team would retain its directness and physical threat. He also feels like a player who could explode under proper coaching, similar to the leap made by Mane.

In short, fans see this as a signing that boosts depth, adds goals and future proofs the attack. If Liverpool land him early in January, it will be viewed as a major statement of intent.