Journalist Pete O’Rourke believes that one Premier League club could hold an edge over Tottenham Hotspur in the pursuit of Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo.
Many Spurs supporters have urged the club to invest ENIC’s £100 million cash injection in signing Semenyo, and recent updates regarding the forward’s future have sparked optimism.
According to Miguel Delaney of The Independent, Tottenham have taken the lead in the race for the 25-year-old, with plans to finalise a deal in January. However, the North London club may have to break their transfer record to secure his signature, as Bournemouth are said to value the Ghanaian at around £75 million.
Why Tottenham May Fall Behind in the Race for Semenyo
In the past week, reports have linked Manchester United and Liverpool with potential moves for Semenyo. O’Rourke now expects even more clubs to enter the race, hinting that Liverpool could have an advantage due to their connection with former Bournemouth sporting director Richard Hughes.
Speaking to Football Insider, O’Rourke explained:
“It’s no surprise that some of the biggest clubs in England are monitoring Semenyo. Liverpool’s link with Richard Hughes could give them a significant advantage over other interested sides. Manchester United and Tottenham have both shown interest, and I wouldn’t rule out Manchester City, Chelsea, or Arsenal considering him as well. Bournemouth are already preparing for major interest.”
Semenyo Move Unlikely in January
While Spurs and others remain keen, multiple reports suggest Bournemouth are determined to keep hold of their key player until at least the summer. O’Rourke also supports this view, noting that a January transfer appears improbable given the winger’s high valuation.
He added:
“I don’t think a move will happen in January because of the price it would take to prise him away. Next summer, though, I expect all those clubs to revisit their interest. Bournemouth will likely receive serious offers then, having managed to extend his contract and fend off bids this year. For Semenyo, opportunities to play at the very top level will certainly come.”
