Inside Antoine Semenyo Liverpool Disagreement as 'Documents Exchanged for £65m Transfer'

Antoine Semenyo's high-profile transfer saga from AFC Bournemouth has ignited a fierce battle between Manchester City and Liverpool during the January 2026 window, with documents reportedly exchanged for his £65 million release clause.

The 25-year-old Ghanaian international, starring with nine goals in 17 Premier League appearances this season, has chosen Manchester City as his preferred destination. Semenyo is drawn to working under Pep Guardiola, favoring City's long-term project and high-pressing style over rivals like Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester United. Reports confirm City have activated his release clause, valued at £65 million (around Rp1.3-1.4 trillion), with medical tests scheduled for Thursday, January 8, 2026. A five-year contract until 2031 and £150,000 weekly wages are on the table, positioning him for potential debuts against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup or Manchester United in the league.[2][3][4]

However, Liverpool remains in contention, leveraging sporting director Richard Hughes' prior role at Bournemouth, where he oversaw Semenyo's 2023 move from Bristol City. This connection could aid negotiations, despite Semenyo's preference for City. Bournemouth aims to retain him until January 10—past three tough fixtures against Chelsea, Tottenham, and Arsenal—when the clause expires, but City's aggressive push to close the six-point gap to leaders Arsenal makes a delay unlikely.[1][6]

The transfer, one of the winter window's biggest, underscores Semenyo's rise as a versatile winger with physicality, leadership, and goal-scoring prowess. Pundit John Cross hails it as a "golden opportunity" under Guardiola. While City lead, Liverpool prepares alternatives, fueling ongoing disagreement and speculation.[5]

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