Why Manchester United Missed Out on Antoine Semenyo in January

Antoine Semenyo has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most exciting forwards this season. Below you will see information about is news which has been summarized The Football Breakdown.

The Ghanaian winger has impressed at Bournemouth, scoring eight goals and providing three assists, drawing attention from top-flight clubs including Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Manchester United. Despite interest earlier in the year, Semenyo only signed a five-year contract with the Cherries this summer, securing his long-term future at the Vitality Stadium.

Bournemouth included a £65 million release clause in the contract, active until January 10, allowing clubs to approach Semenyo with serious offers. This clause has generated a flurry of speculation, with top Premier League clubs preparing to act quickly in the New Year to avoid missing out. The winger’s form has made him a highly coveted asset, and clubs are eager to secure him before rivals make a move.

United, like others, submitted a financial package to lure Semenyo. However, despite the strong offer, the 25-year-old is reportedly prioritizing a move to Premier League title contenders Manchester City, signaling that footballing project and team ambition outweighed monetary incentives.

Footballing Project Over Money

Transfer expert Ben Jacobs revealed that Semenyo’s choice was based on footballing reasons rather than financial gain. He noted that all interested clubs had offered salaries in a “similar financial ballpark,” and Manchester United were not willing to break their wage structure to outbid their competitors. Semenyo’s decision reflects his ambition to join a club with a clear plan for success and the opportunity to compete for major honours.

Contrary to speculation, Manchester United never intended to convert Semenyo into a wing-back. Jacobs confirmed that United saw him purely as a winger or attacking forward. The idea that Ruben Amorim’s tactical system influenced Semenyo’s choice was inaccurate. The player’s decision focused entirely on where he believed he could thrive on the pitch.

This emphasis on sporting prospects shows how top players prioritize project, playing style, and opportunities above financial packages, especially when multiple clubs can match their wage demands. Semenyo’s preference for Manchester City highlights the appeal of a team competing for titles in both domestic and European competitions.

Read Also: Bruno Fernandes Blow Leaves Manchester United Walking a Tightrope

Liverpool Withdraw and Market Shifts

Liverpool were once favorites to sign Semenyo during the January transfer window. Despite their recent signings of Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz, the Reds were reportedly willing to meet the release clause.

Speculation surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future, combined with Isak’s recent ankle injury, seemed to suggest renewed interest. However, talks in November led Liverpool to decide against pursuing the deal further.

The withdrawal of Liverpool and United’s inability to sway Semenyo leaves City in pole position. His arrival could influence Pep Guardiola’s squad choices, as fringe players may be moved to create space. The transfer is not just about adding a star but also reshaping squad dynamics for the New Year.

City’s January Moves and Fringe Players

Semenyo’s anticipated move to Manchester City could lead to further departures in January. Savinho attracted interest from Tottenham over the summer. Marmoush, who scored for Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, has also been linked with possible transfers. Bobb, limited by injuries last season, is reportedly exploring options to secure more playing time.

City’s January window appears set to involve both strategic acquisitions and calculated exits. Adding Semenyo strengthens their attacking options while potentially opening the door for fringe players to seek regular football elsewhere, keeping Guardiola’s squad balanced and competitive across all competitions. Follow footballtipsonline.co.uk  for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest storie