In a stunning escalation of the January transfer saga, Liverpool FC has officially thrown down the gauntlet in the race for Bournemouth’s star forward Antoine Semenyo.
Sources close to the negotiations reveal that the Reds are prepared to trigger the Ghanaian’s £65 million ($87 million) release clause immediately, sending a clear ultimatum to European powerhouses like Real Madrid: back off, or face a bidding war you might not win.
The 25-year-old Semenyo has been nothing short of sensational this season, lighting up the Premier League with seven goals and three assists for the Cherries. His explosive pace, clever dribbling, and clinical finishing have made him one of the most sought-after attackers in world football. Bournemouth, keen to retain their talisman at least until the summer, inserted the release clause in the contract Semenyo signed over the summer—but they never anticipated the frenzy it would ignite.
Liverpool’s interest in Semenyo isn’t new. The Anfield giants have been monitoring the forward’s progress closely, viewing him as the perfect addition to bolster their attacking options under manager Arne Slot. However, with reports emerging that Real Madrid—alongside Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain—have begun circling the player, Liverpool has decided to act decisively. “This is Liverpool declaring war on the transfer market,” said former Premier League star Chris Waddle in an exclusive interview with BestBettingSites. “They’re not just interested; they’re ready to pay up and block the big boys from Europe. That $87 million ultimatum is a statement: Semenyo is ours.”
The drama unfolds against a backdrop of intense competition. Manchester City is reportedly the frontrunner among Premier League suitors, with Pep Guardiola seeing Semenyo as a versatile weapon to refresh his squad. Manchester United, despite splashing out on three new attackers in the summer, remains in the mix, while Tottenham Hotspur lurks as a dark horse. Sky Sports insiders confirm that Liverpool is “believed to still be in the background,” but recent developments suggest they’ve moved to the forefront with this bold maneuver.
What makes Liverpool’s ultimatum particularly aggressive is the timing. With Ghana failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Semenyo will be available throughout January—no international distractions, no fatigue concerns. This has only heightened his appeal, especially to Real Madrid, who are always on the hunt for game-changing talents to complement stars like Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé. Waddle emphasized the global scope: “Clubs like PSG, Barcelona, and Real Madrid can afford those fees. But Liverpool is saying, ‘Not on our watch.’ Semenyo’s proven against top opposition every week—he’s dangerous, consistent, and a bargain at that price in today’s market.”
Bournemouth, meanwhile, is bracing for impact. The Cherries value Semenyo as their “danger man,” a player who thrives in their system with his ability to cut inside, change pace, and remain composed in front of goal. Losing him mid-season could derail their campaign, but the release clause leaves them powerless if the £65 million mark is met. “I hope Bournemouth can hold on,” Waddle added. “But with interest from Europe’s elite, and now Liverpool’s ultimatum, it’s going to be tough.”
The Athletic reported earlier this month that a winter move for Semenyo to Liverpool seemed unlikely due to various factors, including squad depth and financial fair play considerations. Yet, the Reds’ latest stance flips the script, positioning them as the aggressors in a high-stakes negotiation table showdown. If Real Madrid or any other suitor wants Semenyo, they’ll have to outbid Liverpool’s $87 million pledge—and fast.
As the January window approaches, all eyes are on Anfield. Will Liverpool secure their man and fend off the Spanish giants? Or will this ultimatum spark an all-out transfer battle? One thing is certain: the war for Antoine Semenyo has officially begun. Stay tuned for more updates as this explosive story develops.
