Antoine Semenyo makes his choice between Manchester United and Manchester City ahead of a potential January transfer move.

 

 

Antoine Semenyo has reportedly decided on his preferred next club as interest mounts from Manchester City, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham, GIVEMESPORT sources reveal.

The Bournemouth forward is expected to be one of the standout names in the January transfer window, with a £65million release clause in his current contract set to become active on January 1. Interested clubs have until January 10 to activate the clause and complete a deal for the Ghana international.

Following an impressive campaign in which he has netted eight goals in 17 appearances, Semenyo has no shortage of admirers. The 25-year-old has now made clear which destination appeals to him most ahead of a possible January move.

According to GIVEMESPORT, Semenyo has identified Manchester City as his preferred choice. His ambition to compete for major honours is understood to be the driving force behind his desire to join Pep Guardiola’s side, and all interested clubs have now been informed of his stance.

City are believed to be targeting a wide attacker capable of delivering consistent goals, while Semenyo is keen on regular European football and the chance to challenge for silverware. Although Manchester City have yet to formally open talks with Bournemouth, a move is expected to be explored before the January 10 deadline, having first sought clarity on the player’s intentions.

Manchester United, meanwhile, have made a strong push in recent days and even held talks in London. Despite that, Semenyo is understood to be fully convinced by Manchester City’s long-term project. Financial proposals from suitors were broadly similar, though United were unwilling to exceed their wage structure to outbid rivals.

The decision is also said to have nothing to do with Ruben Amorim’s tactical setup at Old Trafford. Claims that Semenyo would be used as a wing-back were wide of the mark, while United are currently focused on strengthening midfield areas in 2026.

Should City succeed in landing Semenyo, it would represent a significant coup for Guardiola’s side, seeing off strong competition from domestic rivals. His arrival would further strengthen an already potent attack featuring Rayan Cherki, Jérémy Doku, Phil Foden, Savinho and Omar Marmoush.

With eight goals in 17 matches this season, Semenyo has shown a clear eye for goal and would offer City a more direct, wide-forward presence rather than a traditional winger or creative playmaker. He would be expected to help share the goalscoring burden with Erling Haaland — a challenge his recent form suggests he is well equipped to handle.