David Ornstein: Chelsea have joined the race to sign £65m star in January | OneFootball

Chelsea Eyeing Antoine Semenyo for January Move

Chelsea have reportedly shown interest in signing AFC Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo in the upcoming January transfer window. According to David Ornstein’s article for The Athletic, the Blues had initially planned to make a move for a new forward in the summer but have now contacted Semenyo’s camp about the conditions of a potential deal. The enquiry signals Chelsea’s intention to bring forward their transfer plans, potentially securing the Ghanaian striker sooner than expected.

Semenyo’s Strong Season at Bournemouth

Semenyo has been in impressive form during the 2025-26 season, netting eight goals and providing three assists in 16 Premier League appearances. His consistent performances have caught the attention of several top clubs, with Chelsea not the only ones circling. The 24-year-old was valued at £70 million by Bournemouth in the summer but now has a £65 million release clause that will be available for activation in January. If Chelsea, or any other club, are willing to meet that fee, the deal could be done quickly, giving Bournemouth little time to replace their star player.

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Chelsea’s Forward Line Needs Reinforcement

Despite spending big in recent transfer windows, Chelsea’s forward line has often been under scrutiny for lacking consistency. While the club made moves to strengthen other areas, including a loan deal for Facundo Buonanotte from Brighton & Hove Albion, they refrained from adding another attacker in the summer. Semenyo’s addition would address this gap, providing a powerful presence in the attack with his combination of strength, pace, and finishing ability.

Bournemouth’s Stance and Semenyo’s Future

Semenyo’s future at Bournemouth is now a topic of growing speculation. Having made over 100 appearances for the club since his January 2023 move from Bristol City, his impressive record of 30 goals and 13 assists has made him one of the most sought-after players in the Premier League. Earlier this month, Ghana head coach Otto Addo suggested that Semenyo could be ready for a bigger move, commenting, “He has done very well at Bournemouth, but with all the respect for Bournemouth and what they’re doing, surely it is natural for him to take the next step.”

While Bournemouth have already lost several key players, including Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid and Milos Kerkez to Serie A, Semenyo’s departure would be a significant blow to their attacking options. The club’s willingness to let him leave for £65 million reflects their approach to managing high-profile departures, a strategy they used in the past with Dominic Solanke.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Chelsea supporter, the potential signing of Antoine Semenyo in January seems like an astute move, especially given the club’s ongoing need for a reliable forward. Under Enzo Maresca, who is into his second season, Chelsea have shown flashes of brilliance but also a lack of clinical edge up front. With a £65 million release clause, Semenyo’s arrival would present value, particularly as his stock continues to rise with each passing season.

From a tactical standpoint, Semenyo would add a different dimension to Chelsea’s attack. His ability to hold the ball up and bring others into play could complement the more creative players around him. The Ghanaian’s versatility in the final third, coupled with his strong aerial presence, would give Maresca another option in both wide and central positions. Additionally, having someone who can offer a consistent goal threat will relieve some pressure from Chelsea’s other attacking players.

It’s also worth noting that Chelsea’s pursuit of Semenyo demonstrates a proactive approach to the market. With competitors like Tottenham, Manchester United, and Liverpool also monitoring the forward, the Blues would do well to act quickly. If Chelsea can wrap up this deal, they could add a vital piece to their attacking puzzle, ensuring they remain competitive in both domestic and European campaigns.