Sources: Liverpool identify four backup targets if Man City hijack Antoine Semenyo deal
In a dramatic turn that could shake up the January transfer market, Manchester City are reportedly poised to hijack Liverpool’s pursuit of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, a player long earmarked as a key winter target for Arne Slot. City are reportedly ready to activate the £65 million release clause in the Ghanaian international’s contract, a move that has reportedly taken Liverpool’s hierarchy by surprise.
Semenyo has been on Liverpool’s radar since the summer, with Sporting Director Richard Hughes leading the charge. The 25-year-old has been in stellar form this season, scoring six goals and providing three assists in the Premier League. The Reds had considered him the ideal reinforcement ahead of Mohamed Salah’s expected absence for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
However, with City now ready to intervene, Liverpool’s recruitment team is said to be urgently rethinking their January strategy, according to sources close to the agents’ network. Insiders at Anfield suggest that a “Plan B” framework is already in motion—a shortlist of immediate and long-term targets aimed at keeping Liverpool competitive both domestically and in Europe.
Liverpool’s alternative transfer targets:
Kenan Yıldız (Juventus): The 18-year-old Turkish prodigy has emerged as a long-term option. Yıldız broke a Juventus record previously held by Alessandro Del Piero and is now regarded as one of Serie A’s brightest young talents. Liverpool see him as an investment capable of developing into a world-class forward under Slot, though Juventus are reluctant to sell mid-season.
Rodrygo (Real Madrid): Another elite option under consideration, the Brazilian is reportedly open to a Premier League move due to uncertainty over his role at Real Madrid. Liverpool have made informal contact with his representatives. While his Champions League experience and versatility make him a perfect fit, Real Madrid’s willingness to sell remains doubtful.
Iliman Ndiaye (Everton): Seen as the most feasible short-term replacement, Ndiaye offers similar attributes to Semenyo, with pace and creativity that suit Slot’s system. However, Liverpool’s approach is complicated by the intense cross-city rivalry with Everton.
Michael Olise (Bayern Munich): The French winger, who joined Bayern last summer, is viewed as a potential “dream signing” for 2026. Olise’s technical ability and flair match the modern wide forward profile and position him as a possible long-term successor to Salah. With Bayern unlikely to sell until next summer, this remains a speculative option.
Reds’ response and broader implications:
Liverpool’s reaction to City’s potential Semenyo swoop will shape their January window. Hughes and Slot are reportedly in constant dialogue with Fenway Sports Group (FSG) to secure funds for a marquee signing, critical for sustaining momentum in both the Premier League title race and the Champions League knockout stages.
If City completes the transfer, it would add another layer to the fierce rivalry between the clubs—battles increasingly fought in the transfer market as well as on the pitch.
For now, Liverpool are focused on acting quickly, whether that means pursuing Yıldız, Rodrygo, Ndiaye, or Olise, to ensure their attack remains potent during Salah’s expected AFCON absence.