Liverpool interest in Antoine Semenyo gathers pace
As the January window edges closer, Liverpool find themselves linked once again with attacking reinforcement, and this time the conversation centres on Antoine Semenyo. The Bournemouth forward has enjoyed a strong Premier League campaign, combining power, direct running and end product, traits that naturally attract elite clubs. Fabrizio Romano has added fuel to the discussion by outlining how persistent Liverpool’s interest has been, even as Manchester City appear to be moving into pole position.
For Liverpool, fresh from a Premier League title under Arne Slot in 2024/25, recruitment remains about timing and value rather than impulse. Semenyo fits the age and profile that typically appeals, but circumstances around the player and rival interest complicate the picture.
Romano update on Semenyo interest
Speaking on his YouTube channel on Christmas morning, Fabrizio Romano addressed reports of a possible late Liverpool move for the Ghana international. His comments underline how fluid the situation remains, despite City’s apparent advantage.
He said: “Reports are mentioning Liverpool might hijack Antoine Semenyo. Manchester City want to be as fast to avoid any kind of surprise for the deal. What Man City will do next is to be in touch with Bournemouth. They will be in direct conversation to discuss how to proceed with this deal.
“Man City will sit at a table and say. ‘We have a deal with Semenyo in place; we can pay the release clause of £65m by January 10 or try to agree a different structure’.”
That clarity from City’s side contrasts with Liverpool’s quieter approach, one that has still involved regular dialogue behind the scenes.
Manchester City preference clear
Romano went on to explain that while Liverpool have maintained contact, the player’s leaning appears obvious for now.
He added: “From Liverpool, they have always been calling. They called in November and again in December. Liverpool have always been in contact with people close to the player.
“Sources close to the player say his preference is Manchester City, but until the deal is signed, you have to be careful. We will see if Liverpool decide a late attempt. Calls constantly but never an official proposal.”
That preference matters. Players rarely deviate once their mind is made up, particularly when Pep Guardiola’s side are involved. City’s intent to move quickly before the £65m clause expires strengthens their hand further.
Liverpool stance under Slot
From a Liverpool perspective, the logic of the interest is clear. With Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations and attacking depth stretched, a 25 year old forward capable of operating across the front line would be valuable. Semenyo’s physicality and pressing intensity would translate well into Slot’s system.
Yet Liverpool’s hierarchy are unlikely to escalate without belief the deal can be won. Constant calls without a formal offer suggest monitoring rather than commitment. That restraint has defined recent windows, even during moments of squad strain.
January window context
History shows that Liverpool will act decisively when opportunity aligns with strategy. January arrivals such as Virgil van Dijk, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo and Philippe Coutinho were not panic buys but calculated investments. If Semenyo proves unattainable, attention will shift swiftly elsewhere.
For now, Fabrizio Romano has left the door ajar rather than wide open. A Liverpool hijack remains possible in theory, but with Manchester City pressing ahead and the player seemingly aligned, it feels more like a watching brief than a looming breakthrough.
