Antoine Semenyo: Arsenal unlikely to sign Man United target in January
Manchester United are expected to invest more in the squad this winter, after enjoying great success during their summer efforts.
The Red Devils have invested over £200million in Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Senne Lammens. With the exception of Sesko, who has had a slow start to life at Old Trafford, all of their new signings have been launched.
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The English giants have enjoyed a resurgence this season, propelled by the performances of their new arrivals. United are currently on a five-game unbeaten run and could move back to within two points of second-placed Chelsea if they secure a victory against Everton on Monday, November 24.
INEOS is already preparing for the January transfer window, and, according to a report relayed by The Peoples Person, they have set their sights on Antoine Semenyo.
One of the best players in the Premier League this season
Semenyo has been on fire for Bournemouth this season, recording six goals and three assists in 12 games in all competitions.
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Antoine Semenyo Premier League stats: 2025/26 season
Source: Premier League website
With Sesko currently out with a knee injury and Mbeumo and Amad Diallo expected to miss a few games due to their AFCON involvement, United turned to Semenyo ahead of the winter.
The Ghanaian reportedly has a £65million release clause in his contract, which could be activated in January. Previous reports suggested Arsenal were also hot on the 25-year-old’s heels, but the latest update on the situation will delight Red Devils fans.
Arsenal absent in January
According to the Mirror, Arsenal may struggle to sign the player in January due to constraints under UEFA squad cost rules.
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“Antoine Semenyo’s incredible form over the past two seasons, as well as his openness about being an Arsenal fan, has resulted in the Gunners being linked with the Bournemouth sensation in recent months.
“But Arsenal are highly unlikely to pull off a move for the Ghanaian, who is said to have a £65million release clause in his contract.
“While the Gunners remain compliant with PSR rules, they are believed to be sailing close to the wind when it comes to UEFA Squad Cost rules following their record summer spending spree.
“It is therefore understood that, barring a significant sale on their part, January looks set to be a quiet month in terms of N5 transfer activity.”
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The report however adds that Arsenal could come back for Semenyo this summer if he ends up staying at Bournemouth until the end of the season.
“If Semenyo stays at the Vitality Stadium until the end of the campaign, when his release clause decreases, Arsenal could change their position, particularly if Gabriel Martinelli is landed.”
Famed journalist Fabrizio Romano recently claimed that Semenyo’s release clause would drop to £50million next summer.
Final Thoughts
Semenyo could add another dimension to Ruben Amorim’s attack, making the move a no-brainer for United. The Ghanaian is versatile enough to play among the top three, which also makes him an ideal candidate for the Portuguese head coach’s plans.
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Amorim could deploy Semenyo as a number 9 to cover for Sesko and even use him as a left-back if necessary. Strengthening the midfield should be the priority for the Red Devils in 2026, but they cannot afford to miss out on Semenyo.
Old United teams were always built around multiple strikers competing for a first-team place. Semenyo’s potential arrival in January could keep the rest of the team on their toes and give Amorim’s side a significant boost in their quest for a top four finish.
Featured image Lewis Storey via Getty Images
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