Antoine Semenyo has confirmed favorite team as Liverpool in $85M transfer battle

Antoine Semenyo has become one of the most talked about Premier League forwards ahead of the January transfer window. The Bournemouth winger has enjoyed a strong start to the season, and his form has attracted interest from several top clubs. With a release clause now active, the transfer battle for the Ghana international is heating up quickly.

Semenyo’s future took a new twist after it was revealed that his recently signed contract included a £65 million, or $85.5 million, release clause. This clause becomes active during the opening weeks of January, making it possible for any club to secure him without negotiation if they meet the price. Liverpool is among the clubs closely monitoring the situation.

The forward has previously shown interest in a move to Arsenal, having openly admitted last year that he grew up supporting the North London club. However, his recent comments have opened the door to other possibilities, especially after he confirmed that he admires Liverpool. This revelation has intensified the transfer speculation around him.

Despite his personal admiration for Arsenal, Semenyo has maintained a professional stance. He explained that childhood fandom does not conflict with his job. According to him, the primary goal is to play for top teams and earn opportunities in European competitions. To reach that level, he believes he must continue scoring goals and delivering consistent performances.

Semenyo has done exactly that this season. With six goals and three assists in twelve Premier League appearances, he has become one of Bournemouth’s standout performers. His explosive pace, direct style, and ability to press from the front have made him a popular target for coaches seeking energy and versatility in attack.

Liverpool’s interest is particularly strong. The club has been scouting players who can add depth to their forward line, especially with long-term planning required for Mohamed Salah’s future. Semenyo’s profile fits the modern Liverpool style. His work rate, dynamism, and flexibility across the front line have made him a natural candidate for Arne Slot’s evolving system.

Manchester United and Tottenham are also in the race. Both clubs are searching for attacking reinforcements, and Semenyo has been on their lists for months. Reports suggest that United held discussions with him last season, although the Ghanaian eventually committed to Bournemouth at that time.

One key figure shaping this transfer saga is Ruben Amorim. It is understood that Amorim met with Semenyo at the end of last season, a meeting that influenced the forward’s decision to sign a new contract. Despite this, the release clause now means Bournemouth has no control if a top club triggers it and Semenyo chooses to move.

Bournemouth’s general manager, Tim Bezbatchenko, has also commented on the situation. He admitted that it is difficult for a club like Bournemouth to block a player from joining a Champions League side. He explained that when clubs such as Liverpool, Real Madrid, or PSG show interest, it becomes a dream opportunity for the player.

Bezbatchenko further stated that everyone benefits in situations like this. The selling club earns a significant fee, the player achieves his ambition, and the buying club gains a proven Premier League performer. His comments have been interpreted as a sign that Bournemouth already expects Semenyo to leave.

Arsenal has not been linked recently, but the story is far from over. If the forward maintains his form, interest from the Emirates Stadium could quickly reappear. Semenyo himself has said that any move to a big club must be earned through hard work, patience, and consistency.

For now, the real battle appears to be between Liverpool and the clubs that can match their ambition. Semenyo’s admiration for Liverpool, combined with the club’s need for attacking reinforcements, places them firmly at the front of the race.

As the January window approaches, all eyes will remain on Bournemouth. The release clause ensures that once the window opens, the decision will rest entirely with Semenyo. His performances, combined with his desire to play for a top club, suggest that a major transfer could be very close.