Liverpool’s pursuit of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo reportedly collapsed due to disagreements over salary, Africasoccer has learned.
The Reds had been strongly linked with Semenyo throughout January, particularly amid ongoing speculation surrounding the future of Egyptian star Mohamed Salah and the possibility of his departure from the Premier League champions. However, Manchester City entered the race and ultimately convinced the attacker to switch to the Etihad Stadium over Anfield.
English outlet TEAMtalk reports that Semenyo turned down the opportunity to join Liverpool and work under head coach Arne Slot after the club refused to meet his wage demands. Liverpool were allegedly unwilling to offer a weekly salary of around £180,000, a figure Manchester City were prepared to pay, including additional bonuses.
The report further indicates that Liverpool had held discussions with the player months earlier, during which Semenyo was keen on a move to Merseyside. However, once City made a significantly higher financial offer, Liverpool’s interest cooled, with the club reluctant to engage in a bidding war with the reigning champions.
It was also noted that Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes and coach Arne Slot no longer view the signing of a new winger as an urgent priority. This stance is said to be influenced by Fenway Sports Group’s determination to retain Mohamed Salah and prevent his exit during the transfer window.
