Manchester City have bolstered their attacking options with the signing of Ghana international Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth for a reported £65 million ($87 million) on Friday.
The 26-year-old, who has netted 10 Premier League goals this season, has agreed to a five-and-a-half-year deal with the Premier League leaders.
Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham were also reportedly interested in the London-born winger, who had a buyout clause set to expire on Saturday.
“I am so proud to have joined Manchester City,” Semenyo said. “I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola. They have been dominant in the Premier League and achieved amazing things in the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup. They set the highest standards, with world-class players, world-class facilities, and one of the greatest managers ever in Pep.”
Semenyo ended his three-year spell with Bournemouth in dramatic fashion, scoring a stoppage-time winner to beat Tottenham 3-2 on Wednesday, ending the Cherries’ 11-game winless run.
City hope Semenyo can strengthen their push for silverware across four competitions in 2026. Guardiola’s side trail Arsenal by six points in the Premier League and face upcoming fixtures in the FA Cup, League Cup, and Champions League.
The signing addresses City’s limited options in wide positions, with Savinho sidelined by injury and Omar Marmoush away representing Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Semenyo’s move is the first major transfer of the January window for Premier League clubs. City are also looking to reinforce their defence after losing Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol to injuries, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi—out of contract at the end of the season—emerging as their prime target.
Semenyo’s rise has been rapid. After three loan spells early in his career with Bristol City, he earned a Premier League move in 2023 and has developed into one of England’s most dynamic wingers under Andoni Iraola at Bournemouth.
“I have so much scope for improvement, so to be at this club at this stage of my career is perfect. It’s a real privilege to be here,” Semenyo added. “My best football is yet to come. City are still involved in four competitions, and I really feel I can help them have a strong second half of the season.”
Semenyo could make his debut as early as Saturday when City host third-tier Exeter in the FA Cup at the Etihad Stadium.
AFP
