Man Utd in talks with Bournemouth for £65m rated striker who offers 'directness and power'

Manchester United have reportedly held preliminary talks with Bournemouth over a move for forward Antoine Semenyo, as the club look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the January transfer window.

According to FourFourTwo, United have already made contact with Semenyo’s representatives and were made aware of a release clause believed to be worth around £65 million.

The Ghana international has impressed for Bournemouth since arriving from Bristol City in 2023, scoring 10 Premier League goals last season and earning widespread plaudits for his pace and versatility.

A report from TalkSPORT adds that Semenyo is being watched by Manchester United and Liverpool. The 25-year-old has also drawn praise from pundits for his relentless energy and ability to operate across the front line.

Former striker Darren Bent told the station: “He’s got that power and directness that defenders hate. He starts for a top-six side, no question — maybe even Arsenal or Liverpool.”

For United, the pursuit reflects manager Rúben Amorim’s desire to add more dynamism to an attack that has struggled for consistency.

Amorim is said to be a fan of Semenyo’s pressing game, which fits the high-intensity system he implemented during his time at Sporting Lisbon.

However, Bournemouth are under no pressure to sell. The club view Semenyo as a key part of their project under Andoni Iraola, and any approach would need to match their valuation.

Sources close to the player have suggested he would only consider a move if it guarantees regular playing time and European football.

United’s interest dates back several years — the club reportedly tracked Semenyo while he was still at Bristol City — and recent performances have reignited that admiration.

Whether a deal can be struck remains uncertain, but insiders believe the Old Trafford hierarchy see Semenyo as a long-term solution on the wing rather than a short-term fix.

For now, the player remains focused on Bournemouth’s campaign, though speculation around a January move to Manchester shows no sign of slowing.