Bournemouth Faces Potential Departure of Star Winger Semenyo

Bournemouth is preparing for the likely departure of their standout winger, Antoine Semenyo, following the activation of exit clauses in his contract at the Vitality Stadium. If he is to leave, he certainly made a memorable contribution by scoring a dramatic 95th-minute winner in their recent 3-2 victory over Tottenham.

This result has provided Bournemouth with a comfortable 12-point cushion above the relegation zone, although concerns about their attacking options are growing as Semenyo nears the exit.

Head coach Andoni Iraola has acknowledged the challenge of losing such a prized asset. In a statement to Sky Sports regarding Semenyo potentially having scored his last goal for the team, he admitted, “It looks like it, yes. Obviously, you have to do the medical and formalities, but I’m afraid to say, because I don’t want to lose him. He’s a top professional and one of the best players I have coached. He’s ready for anything.”

Manchester City has been leading the race for Semenyo’s signature since before Christmas, with Pep Guardiola eager to enhance his already formidable attacking lineup, which includes star striker Erling Haaland and other talented forwards like Omar Marmoush, Jeremy Doku, Savinho, and Oscar Bobb.

However, City has yet to finalize a deal. After a disappointing 1-1 home draw against Brighton, Guardiola responded to inquiries about the potential addition of another winger, stating, “I don’t know. I don’t know what is going to happen in the transfer window.”

This uncertainty leaves the door open for other clubs to intervene and potentially secure Semenyo’s services. He has also drawn interest from Manchester United, while Liverpool is assessing their options, particularly in light of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future at the club.

Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp suggested that Arne Slot might be preparing a late bid for Semenyo. Discussing City’s efforts to finalize another big-money transfer, he noted, “I’m not so sure. I’ve heard there might be a little twist. I think Liverpool could still be in the equation. If they did come in, I would be surprised they haven’t pushed harder. Given the uncertainty around Salah’s future, why wouldn’t they pursue a match-winner like Semenyo? I hope there’s still a chance for it to happen.”

Semenyo’s reputation has skyrocketed since his move to Bournemouth from Bristol City in January 2023. After a slow start, he enjoyed a stellar 2024-25 season, scoring 13 goals across all competitions, and he has already reached double figures this term.

Many consider him an ideal successor to Salah on Liverpool’s right flank. However, with their struggle to defend their Premier League title in 2025-26, the Reds must act quickly if they wish to secure this significant signing and leave Manchester City disappointed.