Romano: Liverpool maintain ‘constant’ contact over £65m star, late ‘hijack’ still possible
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Liverpool have maintained ongoing contact with the representatives of a player who, for now, appears set to join one of their biggest rivals.
In the lead-up to the January transfer window, the Reds have been heavily linked with Antoine Semenyo, with journalist Paul Joyce confirming there has been genuine interest from Anfield in the Bournemouth winger.
However, Liverpool’s hopes of securing the 25-year-old suffered a significant setback after reports indicated that Semenyo prefers a move to Manchester City. On Christmas morning, Romano provided an update on his YouTube channel, explaining that Pep Guardiola’s side are moving ahead with plans for a January transfer, although Liverpool could still attempt a last-minute hijack.
Romano stated: “Reports mention Liverpool might try to hijack Antoine Semenyo. Manchester City want to act quickly to avoid any surprises in the deal. They will be in direct talks with Bournemouth to discuss the next steps. Man City may sit down and say: ‘We have an agreement with Semenyo; we can pay the £65m release clause by January 10, or try to arrange an alternative structure.’
“Liverpool, meanwhile, have been in constant contact with people close to the player, calling in November and December. Sources indicate Semenyo prefers Manchester City, but until a deal is officially signed, anything could happen. We may see a late attempt from Liverpool, though so far there’s been no formal proposal.”
Romano’s update suggests there’s still a slim possibility for Liverpool to swoop if they are determined, although it seems unlikely given the player’s preference for City and the speed with which Guardiola’s side are expected to act before his £65m release clause expires in just over two weeks.
Semenyo would have been a valuable mid-season addition for Arne Slot’s squad, especially with Mo Salah at the Africa Cup of Nations and Alexander Isak sidelined for at least two months due to an ankle injury.
If Liverpool conclude that pursuing Semenyo is unrealistic, they are expected to shift focus quickly to alternative targets rather than waste resources on a near-impossible deal. History shows that FSG do not make signings merely for the sake of it, even under pressure from fans. Yet, they have demonstrated a willingness to act decisively when a strong mid-season opportunity arises—evident in previous January deals for players like Cody Gakpo, Luis Diaz, Virgil van Dijk, and Philippe Coutinho. Therefore, another smart January move remains a possibility in the next five weeks.