Liverpool looming for Antoine Semenyo in late Manchester City transfer scare

Manchester City face a late scare in their pursuit for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, according to new reports.

The Ghana international has been edging closer to a long-anticipated move away from the south coast, with City widely viewed as the frontrunners to secure his signature ahead of the January transfer window.

Until now, the picture had appeared relatively clear in that Manchester City and Manchester United had been described as the two most serious contenders, with Chelsea stepping away after an exploratory enquiry.

City, in particular, have accelerated discussions in recent days, with sporting director Hugo Viana holding direct talks as Pep Guardiola’s side push for a swift resolution. That urgency has been underlined by reporting from BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel, who revealed Semenyo wants his Manchester City transfer completed by January 1.

That same report indicated that Bournemouth would ideally like to retain the forward for key fixtures against Arsenal and Tottenham ahead of his January 10 release clause deadline, but the player himself is keen for a rapid conclusion.

As Mokbel explained, the decision is not financial, but driven by the opportunity to work under Pep Guardiola, compete for trophies, and represent Manchester City at the highest level of the sport.

But now, according to a new report from MailSport’s Jack Gaughan, Bournemouth are expecting Liverpool to emerge as serious suitors for Antoine Semenyo, who has already identified City as his preferred destination.

From the side of those at the Etihad Stadium, City officials are keen to have a deal wrapped up in readiness for the January transfer window opening, although Liverpool have long been admirers of the 26-year-old.

Whilst the Reds are said to have shown no inclination to challenge Manchester City for his signature up until this point, there are now suggestions on the south coast that Anfield sporting director Richard Hughes is contemplating a move.

Liverpool’s potential late entry introduces an element of uncertainty, particularly given their long-standing appreciation of Antoine Semenyo’s profile and Premier League output, as well as ongoing doubts over the future of Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak’s long-term injury.

However, the balance of reporting still suggests Manchester City hold a significant advantage, not least due to the player’s own preference and the advanced nature of discussions already held.

If Manchester City are able to formalise terms and trigger the £65 million release clause promptly, Liverpool’s window to act may prove extremely narrow. Any hesitation, though, could invite a final attempt from Anfield to reframe the race.

With Semenyo pushing for clarity and Bournemouth bracing for an imminent exit, the coming days look set to be decisive in determining whether Manchester City can avoid a late transfer scare and close out one of their priority January targets.