Liverpool ready to pay €85M for Premier League star in January

Liverpool are reportedly gearing up for a bold January move to sign Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, with the club ready to spend as much as €85 million to secure his services. The Reds view the Ghanaian winger as the ideal reinforcement for the right flank—particularly with Mohamed Salah set to represent Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations early next year.

The move has gained traction largely because Ghana failed to qualify for the upcoming AFCON, leaving Semenyo available for the full duration of the winter period. This factor has made him one of the most attractive short-term and long-term options on Arne Slot’s radar, as Liverpool look to maintain their attacking firepower during Salah’s absence.

Sources close to the club suggest that Liverpool’s interest in Semenyo is genuine and advanced, with internal discussions already taking place about whether to trigger his release clause or negotiate a structured deal with Bournemouth. The winger signed a new contract last summer, which reportedly includes a £75 million release clause, though that figure could rise to £90 million in January due to a performance-based clause.

Competition for Semenyo’s signature will be fierce. Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea were all linked with the player during the last transfer window, but none made a formal bid. Liverpool, however, are believed to have the financial strength and sporting project to convince both the player and Bournemouth to agree to a deal.

From a tactical standpoint, Semenyo fits Slot’s system perfectly. The 24-year-old possesses pace, strength, and a relentless pressing style—qualities that align with Liverpool’s high-intensity approach. He’s also proven his ability to deliver from both wings and even as a central forward, making him a versatile attacking option capable of rotating across multiple roles.

Semenyo’s start to the 2025–26 season has been electric, contributing several goals and assists while displaying improved decision-making in the final third. His ability to stretch defenses and create openings for teammates has been a key factor in Bournemouth’s solid performances. Liverpool see him as a player who can challenge Salah immediately while also serving as a long-term successor when the Egyptian eventually moves on.

Bournemouth, however, are expected to resist any mid-season offers. The Cherries turned down several approaches during the summer and are not eager to lose their star player midway through the campaign. Yet, Liverpool’s strong relationship with Bournemouth—bolstered by the Milos Kerkez transfer—could help open a dialogue between the two clubs.

Reports indicate that Semenyo himself is keen on the move, viewing Liverpool as a massive step forward in his career. The chance to compete for Premier League titles, Champions League glory, and play under Arne Slot’s attacking setup reportedly excites the Ghanaian forward.

Liverpool’s urgency could prove decisive. If Salah departs early for international duty and injuries strike elsewhere, the Reds may be forced to accelerate their transfer plans. An €85 million offer—close to the player’s release clause—would likely test Bournemouth’s resolve, especially if Semenyo expresses his desire to leave.

For Liverpool, this transfer would not only fill the temporary gap left by Salah but also inject new energy and competition into their forward line. With Luis Díaz, Diogo Jota, Darwin Núñez, and Cody Gakpo already in the mix, adding Semenyo would make Liverpool’s attacking unit one of the most complete in Europe.

As January approaches, all eyes will be on Anfield to see whether the club makes their move. With Semenyo’s explosive form, availability during AFCON, and eagerness for a new challenge, the stage seems perfectly set for another high-profile Liverpool signing.