City in the Driving Seat
For much of December, it appeared that Manchester City had secured their man. Reports on Monday confirmed that Semenyo’s representatives were in Manchester to finalize personal terms on a long-term contract at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola has identified the 25-year-old Ghanaian international as the perfect addition to bolster his attacking frontline, with City ready to trigger the £65 million release clause in his contract.
Semenyo has been in sensational form this season, racking up 9 goals and 3 assists in 17 matches, making him one of the most clinical forwards in the division behind only Erling Haaland.
The Anfield Hijack?
However, the deal has hit a sudden twist. Despite City being the "favorites," Liverpool have emerged as serious suitors looking to perform a late hijack. Reliable sources, including the Daily Mail and The Telegraph, report that Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes—who originally brought Semenyo to Bournemouth—is contemplating a sensational raid on his former club.
With uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s long-term future and a recent injury to Alexander Isak leaving a gap in the market, the Reds are reportedly "waiting in the wings" to see if they can disrupt City's move before the January 10 deadline of the release clause.
The £65m Deadlock
The structure of the deal is currently the only thing standing between Semenyo and a move:
• The Clause: £60 million upfront plus £5 million in add-ons.
• The Timing: The clause is only active from January 1 to January 10.
• The Conflict: Bournemouth are desperate to keep Semenyo for their upcoming clashes against Chelsea (Jan 3) and Arsenal (Jan 7).
While Semenyo is reportedly leaning toward the Etihad, Liverpool’s late entry has put the Cherries on high alert for a "late twist." If City fail to agree on a payment structure that allows Semenyo to play those final games for Bournemouth, the door could fly open for Arne Slot’s Liverpool to swoop in.
Will the Ghana star become a Citizen or a Red? The next 48 hours will be decisive!