Journalist reveals Man Utd “aggressively targeted” £55m transfer, Amorim even took player out for meal

Manchester United’s summer transfer window may have ended with the arrivals of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, but fresh revelations suggest the club came very close to signing another attacker. According to journalist Duncan Castles, United “aggressively targeted” Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, with manager Ruben Amorim even going as far as taking the player out for a private meal to assess his character and discuss a potential move.

The story, revealed on the Transfers Podcast, has added a new layer to United’s transfer strategy under Amorim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe. While fans were thrilled with the eventual additions of Cunha and Mbeumo, many will now be left wondering what might have been if United had pushed harder for Semenyo, who has quickly become one of the most exciting wingers in the Premier League.

Semenyo’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. Since joining Bournemouth, the Ghanaian international has established himself as a key figure with his explosive pace, direct dribbling, and knack for creating chances. His performances last season caught the attention of several top clubs, including Liverpool and Tottenham, but it was Manchester United who appeared to move the most aggressively.

The reported dinner meeting between Amorim and Semenyo shows just how serious United were in their pursuit. Managers don’t often make such direct overtures unless they are convinced the player could be a central piece of their project. It also highlights Amorim’s hands-on approach in recruitment, where personal chemistry and mentality are seen as vital in addition to raw talent.

Talks were also held between United executives and Bournemouth chiefs, suggesting negotiations had advanced beyond initial scouting. However, the stumbling block proved to be the transfer fee. Bournemouth valued Semenyo at more than £55 million, while United were unwilling to go higher. With Financial Fair Play constraints and other priorities in the squad, the deal stalled and eventually collapsed.

In hindsight, some fans may feel frustrated that the club did not stretch its budget for a player who could have elevated their attack even further. Semenyo is only 25 and still improving, which makes him an attractive long-term investment. However, others will argue that Cunha and Mbeumo represent smart business, both players fitting Amorim’s tactical system while costing less than what Bournemouth demanded.

For Bournemouth, keeping Semenyo was a major victory. The Cherries have developed a reputation for selling their best talents for big profits, and many assumed Semenyo would be the next to leave. His continued presence ensures they retain a dangerous forward line for at least another season, though interest from elite clubs will almost certainly return in future windows.

The revelation also puts pressure on United’s scouting and recruitment team. Missing out on Semenyo could be seen as a lost opportunity, especially if he continues his rapid rise in the Premier League. Supporters will be watching closely to see whether Cunha and Mbeumo can deliver consistent performances, as the shadow of what might have been with Semenyo lingers in the background.

What makes the story even more intriguing is Amorim’s personal involvement. Unlike some United managers of the past who delegated most transfer duties, Amorim is showing he wants to be at the heart of discussions. Taking Semenyo out for dinner was more than just a gesture; it was a clear indication of how highly he rated the player’s mentality and professionalism. That effort alone may keep the door open for a future move.

Semenyo himself has remained quiet about the links, focusing instead on his football at Bournemouth. But for United fans, this latest revelation adds drama to what was already a rollercoaster of a transfer window. While they will cheer on Cunha and Mbeumo, the thought of Semenyo in a red shirt is likely to linger, especially if he continues to light up the league with his performances.

Looking ahead, there is every chance Manchester United will revisit the situation. Should Semenyo keep his form, his name will remain on the radar of big clubs, and United could yet come back with an improved offer. For now, though, the deal that never happened remains one of the summer’s most fascinating “what if” stories.