Man Utd step up push for Antoine Semenyo as Amorim’s personal talks fuel January optimism

Manchester United are growing increasingly confident of securing Antoine Semenyo after sustained efforts by head coach Ruben Amorim, with the club now prioritising the Bournemouth attacker ahead of the January transfer window.

United view Semenyo as a primary target as they reshape their attack, believing Amorim’s personal involvement has strengthened their position in a competitive race for the Ghana international.

Semenyo’s contract at Bournemouth includes a £65 million buyout clause, which can be activated during the opening two weeks of January, offering a clear pathway for interested clubs.

United executives consider Manchester City their closest challengers for the forward’s signature, according to reports, with both clubs closely monitoring the contractual trigger.

Amorim is understood to have held direct talks with Semenyo in London towards the end of last season, underlining the manager’s long standing admiration for the player.

Despite that meeting, United’s board previously declined to meet Bournemouth’s £80 million valuation, opting instead to wait for a more structured opportunity.

That opportunity has now emerged through the release clause, prompting renewed confidence within Old Trafford that a deal is achievable on defined financial terms.

City have also expressed interest in Semenyo, although uncertainty surrounding Pep Guardiola’s future could weigh on the player’s decision making.

United sources believe managerial stability and a clearer sporting project may give them an advantage in negotiations during the critical early January period.

Amorim sees Semenyo as a tactical fit rather than a conventional forward, identifying his versatility as central to United’s evolving system.

The Portuguese coach believes Semenyo can operate as an attacking wing-back, mirroring the role in which Amad Diallo has flourished on the left side.

Semenyo’s pace, ball carrying, and physical strength are viewed as attributes suited to Amorim’s demands for wide players who contribute defensively and offensively.

United’s recruitment team has also highlighted the player’s Premier League experience as a key factor, reducing adaptation risks midseason.

Bournemouth remain reluctant sellers, but the contractual clause limits their leverage should United decide to proceed decisively.