Bournemouth extend Antoine Semenyo amid interest from Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham

Bournemouth have signed Ghana international Antoine Semenyo to a new contract running until 2030. After scoring 13 goals and providing 7 assists in the 2024–25 season, Semenyo had attracted interest from Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham. According to Sky Sports and TEAMtalk, all three clubs had been monitoring the player, but Bournemouth managed to retain his services.

At the centre of transfer speculation

Ghana’s standout forward Antoine Semenyo has put an end to ongoing transfer rumours. The 25-year-old signed a new five-year deal with Bournemouth, disrupting the summer plans of clubs like Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham who had been heavily linked with him.

Manchester United turned to Semenyo after Mbeumo pursuit stalled

Semenyo had been frequently mentioned in transfer talks in recent weeks. According to TEAMtalk’s report from 15 June 2025, Manchester United turned to Semenyo as a potential alternative after failing to make progress in their pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo, citing his versatility and capacity to play in the number 10 role as key reasons for Amorim’s interest.

Tottenham’s interest faded amid high asking price

Tottenham also expressed serious interest in the player. According to a Sky Sports report dated 9 June 2025, the London club opened communication with Semenyo and his representatives. However, Bournemouth’s asking price of £60–70 million stalled any further negotiations. Spurs reportedly placed high value on his physical strength and tactical flexibility.

Liverpool monitored him closely through Richard Hughes

Liverpool’s scouting process had started earlier. In a Sky Sports analysis published in November 2024, it was noted that Richard Hughes, then newly appointed as Liverpool’s sporting director, had closely followed Semenyo’s development during his time at Bournemouth. Hughes is understood to have continued valuing the forward’s potential as part of Liverpool’s recruitment vision.

Bournemouth mock speculation with social media post

Despite all this interest, Bournemouth secured a new five-year deal with Semenyo. The club revealed the extension through a playful social media post poking fun at the transfer speculation. The post featured mock headlines like “Is Semenyo leaving Vitality?” and “Can the Cherries keep their star?”

Semenyo’s first words: “I’ve grown here, and I’m happy”

Speaking to the club’s website following the announcement, Antoine Semenyo expressed his delight with the decision:

“I’ve grown so much at this club, both on and off the pitch, and I’m really happy to have signed ahead of returning for pre‑season. From the fans to the staff and my team‑mates, I can’t speak highly enough of the people around the club.”

Tiago Pinto: “One of our cornerstones”

Tiago Pinto, Bournemouth’s Head of Football Operations, said:

“Antoine has been crucial to the club’s progress and is a key member of the project here at Vitality Stadium. We have a great relationship with Antoine, and we’re looking forward to continuing that as we hope to build on a record‑breaking season. His commitment to the club matches our ambition, and I’m excited to see what can be achieved as we prepare for the new campaign.”

13 goals and 7 assists in 42 games: Direct attacking impact

In the 2024–25 season, Semenyo featured in 42 official matches across all competitions for Bournemouth, scoring 13 goals and providing 7 assists. His contributions significantly bolstered the team’s attacking line. His physical resilience, off-the-ball movement and finishing established him as a key figure in Bournemouth’s attack.

Breaking down Semenyo’s strengths and playing style

Antoine Semenyo exemplifies the modern need for versatile attackers, standing out with his strong physique and direct playing style. Primarily a right winger, he is also capable of playing across the frontline—centrally or on the left—providing tactical flexibility to his manager. With the ball at his feet, he looks to drive quickly towards goal, posing an aggressive threat. His runs destabilise defences, particularly with his pace and dribbling ability in open space. He stands 1.85 metres tall and thrives in physical contests, giving him a natural edge in the Premier League’s high-impact battles. His 13 goals and 7 assists across 42 matches show that he is not just a support act but a direct contributor to the scoreboard. Playing in 37 of Bournemouth’s 38 Premier League games highlights his consistency. Moreover, he is committed defensively—pressing, applying pressure after losing possession, and tracking back to help his team. While he occasionally rushes decisions or struggles with final passes, particularly against low blocks, developing this aspect of his game could be key to reaching the next level. For teams relying on transitions and open-play attacks, Semenyo offers a dynamic, relentless, and reliable option who doesn’t just contribute statistically but elevates the team’s attacking tempo and wears down defences. At just 25 years old, his athleticism, explosive bursts, and highly coachable mentality suggest he can rise to even higher levels.

Extension reflects Bournemouth’s development strategy

Semenyo’s new deal represents both sporting continuity and smart asset management for Bournemouth. His performances and physical profile have made him a standout at Premier League level, and the extension strengthens the club’s position in the face of future bids. For a club built on player development and open to sales, this move ensures present stability while securing potential long-term value. How far Semenyo progresses in the years ahead will ultimately define the value of Bournemouth’s long-term bet.