Stefan Borson: This is the Issue Man City Will Face After Finalising Antoine Semenyo Deal

Former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson has outlined a key challenge the club will encounter once they activate Antoine Semenyo's £65 million release clause from Bournemouth in January. While the deal is described as a "realistic" major signing for Pep Guardiola's side, Borson highlights significant hurdles in squad integration and financial balancing.[1]

Semenyo, the Ghana international, has impressed with seven goals and three assists in 16 appearances this season, drawing interest from rivals like Liverpool and Manchester United. His release clause, activatable next month, makes him City's most feasible high-profile target amid a tight January window opening in two weeks.[1]

Borson told Football Insider: "Semenyo is the only realistic deal for a number of clubs in January of that major sort of signing because he’s got the release clause." However, the "issue" post-deal centers on funding and squad management. City must offload players to comply with financial regulations and create space, as wholesale spending remains constrained without sales.[1][2]

Borson revealed a potential three-man sale plan: Savinho, Rico Lewis, and Oscar Bobb could depart if suitable offers arrive. Savinho nearly joined Tottenham last summer, while Nottingham Forest targeted Lewis. These exits would generate funds for Semenyo and possibly others like Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, whose £100 million price tag lacks a release clause, making a January move unlikely.[1]

Guardiola faces a pivotal decision on strengthening amid City's form dip. Borson notes that without player departures, even attractive targets like Wharton stay put. Semenyo's versatility as a forward fits City's needs, but executing sales swiftly will be crucial to avoid FFP pitfalls and ensure seamless integration.[2]

In summary, while Semenyo's clause simplifies acquisition, the real test lies in player sales to fund and facilitate the move, testing City's transfer strategy in a competitive window.[1]

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