BREAKING NEWS: “There’s no way that I’m going to sit and allow this transfer happen, Arteta is always fond of doing this to us. This was the same thing that happened with the Zubimendi transfer — this time around, I’m going to report Arsenal to FIFA,” Arne Slot unhappy as Arsenal have reached agreement on five-year deal to sign £80m proven player by January – Threatening to report Arsenal to FIFA

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has voiced his anger following reports that Arsenal have reached a full agreement to sign Antoine Semenyo in a deal worth around £80 million, with a five-year contract expected to be finalized before the January transfer window. The Dutch manager, who only took charge at Anfield a few months ago, is reportedly furious at what he describes as Arsenal’s “unfair advantage” in negotiations — and has even threatened to report the club to FIFA if the deal goes through under controversial circumstances.

According to multiple reports, Arsenal have been in advanced talks with Semenyo’s representatives over the past few weeks and have now agreed personal terms. The Ghanaian forward, who has impressed with his performances for Bristol City, is expected to be unveiled as one of Arsenal’s marquee signings once the transfer window opens in January.

Arne Slot, however, isn’t taking the situation lightly. The Liverpool manager has long admired Semenyo’s talent and versatility, viewing him as an ideal player to strengthen his attacking options. Slot was reportedly shocked when news broke that Arsenal had swooped in late to hijack Liverpool’s pursuit of the player — a scenario that, according to him, mirrors what happened earlier this year when Mikel Arteta managed to outmaneuver Liverpool for Martín Zubimendi.

Slot reportedly told journalists that Arsenal’s transfer dealings were becoming “a pattern of interference,” claiming that the Gunners had been in direct communication with Semenyo’s camp even while Liverpool were in advanced discussions. He suggested that if the Premier League or FIFA fails to intervene, such practices could “damage the spirit of fair competition” among top clubs.

The Dutch tactician’s frustration stems not only from losing another transfer target but also from the timing. Liverpool’s frontline has been inconsistent in recent weeks, and Slot was eager to add depth ahead of a challenging run of fixtures. Losing a high-profile target like Semenyo to Arsenal — a direct title rival — only makes the situation more delicate.

For Mikel Arteta, however, this move represents another major statement of intent. The Arsenal boss has been relentless in his ambition to build a squad capable of challenging for both the Premier League and Champions League. After missing out on Zubimendi last summer, Arteta made it clear to the club’s board that attacking reinforcements were his top priority. Semenyo’s arrival could offer the Gunners a new dimension in attack, given his speed, power, and finishing ability.

The player himself is said to be excited about the move. Sources close to Semenyo have hinted that he views Arsenal as the perfect environment to continue his growth under Arteta’s system, especially with the opportunity to play alongside Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli. Arsenal’s project and long-term vision reportedly played a big role in convincing him to join over other suitors.

Meanwhile, within Liverpool’s camp, the tension is rising. Club officials are believed to be evaluating their transfer strategy after missing out on multiple targets since Slot’s appointment. The club’s supporters have also taken to social media, expressing frustration over what they perceive as a lack of decisive action in the market, while Arsenal continue to act swiftly and efficiently.

Slot’s threat to take the matter to FIFA may not yield significant results, but it underscores the growing rivalry between the two clubs. Both managers have made it clear that they intend to compete for the same trophies — and now, apparently, the same players. With Arsenal closing in on another major signing, Liverpool may be forced to turn their attention elsewhere, though the sting of losing Semenyo could linger throughout the season.

If the deal is completed as expected, Semenyo’s £80 million transfer will not only mark another high-profile addition to Arsenal’s ranks but also signal Arteta’s growing influence in the transfer market. The Spanish coach’s ability to convince top targets to join his project continues to frustrate rival managers — none more so than Arne Slot, who now finds himself on the losing end of another transfer battle.

As the January window approaches, the football world will be watching closely to see how Liverpool respond to this setback — and whether Arne Slot follows through with his bold claim of taking action against Arsenal. One thing is certain: the rivalry between these two Premier League giants is intensifying, both on and off the pitch