Chelsea have made a formal enquiry about signing Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo ahead of the January transfer window, escalating a growing battle among top Premier League clubs for the Ghana international’s signature.
The 25-year-old, who has scored eight Premier League goals this season, is attracting attention from some of England’s biggest clubs, with Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool all linked with a January move.
Chelsea make a move
Chelsea’s initial contact with the player’s representatives was made as they assessed the terms and conditions of a possible deal. The Blues’ report is understood to focus on how a transfer could be structured – including payment schedules and wage demands – if they decide to press ahead.
Semenyo’s contract at Bournemouth contains a £65 million release clause, which becomes active on January 1. This clause is made up of a £60 million fixed fee plus around £5 million in add-ons, but clubs must act quickly – it is only valid during the first part of the January window.
Chelsea’s interest comes amid a broader scramble for Semenyo’s signature. Manchester City and Manchester United are widely believed to be strong contenders, with both sides assessing how he could fit into their attacking plans.
Liverpool, despite mixed reporting on their pursuit, are also monitoring the situation closely. Sources say the Reds have shown genuine interest, though it remains unclear whether this will turn into a formal bid next month.
Bournemouth’s star set to leave?
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has publicly praised Semenyo’s focus amid the swirling transfer speculation and expressed a clear desire to keep the forward at the club for the rest of the season. However, he acknowledged that January transfers can be unpredictable, and a move could still happen.
“Antoine Semenyo right now is with us. He’s playing very well. My concern is that it doesn’t affect him. He’s played very well, he’s committed to the team and I hope we can keep him. There are things happening out of our control,” Iraola said to the media.
“Antoine has been performing very well. The level of consistency has been very good since the beginning of the season. He’s very valuable for us – not just the numbers, but a lot of things.
“You never know what is going to happen. In the summer there were a lot of movements. I don’t know what’s going to happen in the winter movements.
“At the end, you sign a contract and understand that both parties are happy. I hope we don’t lose him, but I don’t know, I can’t control what’s going to happen.”
Semenyo’s rise has been notable since joining Bournemouth in January 2023 from Bristol City, with his pace, physical presence and versatility helping the Cherries compete in the Premier League.
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