Report: Liverpool are ‘ahead’ of Spurs in the race to sign £65m forward | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Pursuit of Antoine Semenyo Shapes January’s Transfer Landscape

Antoine Semenyo’s emergence as one of the Premier League’s most impactful wide forwards has shifted the mood ahead of January. His release clause, confirmed as £60 million plus £5 million in add-ons, has created the sort of transfer storyline that gathers momentum quickly. According to TeamTalk, sources believe Liverpool are “ahead in the race” for the Bournemouth forward, with Tottenham Hotspur still firmly positioned to challenge.

Rising Value of Semenyo

This season, Semenyo has become central to Andoni Iraola’s fast, aggressive system, delivering six goals and three assists in 12 matches. The numbers underline his influence, but it is his style that has attracted such heavyweight interest. As TeamTalk notes, he has produced “lung-busting counter-attacks, thunderous left-footed rockets, and silky dribbles that leave defenders in the dust.” No player has scored more goals from fast breaks this campaign.

His evolution since arriving from Bristol City for £10 million in 2023 has been rapid. A new five-year deal signed in July was meant to protect Bournemouth’s position, but the release clause, active only until mid-January, has set up a race that could shape both Liverpool’s and Tottenham’s seasons.

Liverpool’s Strategic Fit

Liverpool’s interest appears particularly advanced. TeamTalk reports that the club is “ready to meet” the clause and feel confident due to the player’s interest in a Merseyside move. Under Slot, Liverpool are preparing for a future that may soon require new solutions on the right flank, and the idea of Semenyo as a successor to Mohamed Salah has gathered real traction.

Photo: IMAGO

An insider quote used in TeamTalk’s piece states that Liverpool are “ahead in the race,” and that aligns with the sense that Semenyo’s explosive profile fits Liverpool’s next-cycle blueprint. His versatility and ability to lead transitions feel like a natural progression within the tactical identity Slot has begun to shape.

Tottenham’s Determination

Tottenham are not stepping back. Thomas Frank’s second season has been defined by adaptation, injury challenges, and the need to elevate the attacking threat. With Richarlison sitting two goals behind Semenyo in league output, Spurs view the Bournemouth winger as an immediate enhancement.

TeamTalk reported that Spurs are “working tirelessly” behind the scenes to keep pace with Liverpool. The club’s admiration dates back to the summer when a £70 million approach was rebuffed. With Frank’s system demanding intense movement across the front line, Semenyo’s profile aligns smoothly with Tottenham’s evolving identity.

Bournemouth’s Balancing Act

The release clause places Bournemouth in a difficult position. A January sale would mean losing their most dangerous transition outlet, but with Bristol City entitled to 20 percent of any profit, the financial return is substantial. Semenyo himself has remained professional, with TeamTalk noting that he even skipped Ghana duty for “personal reasons” amid the speculation.

Whichever club moves first may decide the outcome. January always brings unpredictability, and this feels like the kind of pursuit where timing matters as much as money.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

From a Tottenham supporter’s perspective, the situation is both intriguing and frustrating. Thomas Frank’s project has progressed well enough, but it still feels slightly short in forward areas where the team lacks a true chaos-creator. Semenyo fits that description perfectly. His blend of pace, directness, and counter-attacking threat would feel tailor-made for Spurs, especially with the manager’s preference for aggressive transitions and flexible front-line rotations.

Hearing that Liverpool are “ahead in the race” is discouraging but not surprising. They often move efficiently when a target aligns tactically and developmentally. Yet Spurs have a genuine argument here. Frank has shown a willingness to adapt his attacking patterns to fit explosive wide players, and Semenyo would walk into regular minutes, which is not guaranteed at Anfield. Richarlison’s inconsistency is a problem that fans have noticed for a long time, and Semenyo’s six goals in 12 games highlight the productivity gap.

There is also a sense that Tottenham must act decisively to match their ambitions. The club has been rebuilding steadily, but signings like Semenyo are the ones that shift momentum. The January window is often chaotic but if Spurs truly want to challenge the top four, they cannot allow Liverpool a free run at a player who would significantly strengthen both squads. Spurs may not be favourites, but this is one battle supporters feel is worth fighting hard for.