Wayne Rooney names Liverpool target who has been better than any of Arne Slot's players this season

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Rousing the Kop or go back to LFC Live.

Wayne Rooney has praised a player Liverpool have identified as a transfer target going into 2026.Liverpool fans want a defensive midfielder and a centre-back to arrive at Anfield in the near future.However, the Reds are seemingly looking to strengthen their forward line as well.Join our newsletter for news & smart analysis. Recent reports have now stated that Antonie Semenyo has a £65m release clause in his Bournemouth deal.Meanwhile, it emerged this week that Liverpool are ‘confident’ about signing Semenyo from the Cherries.READ MORE: Biggest points gaps overturned in Premier League title races as Liverpool chase ArsenalPhoto by Lewis Storey/Getty ImagesWayne Rooney names Antonie Semenyo among top Premier League playersThe winger has six goals and three assists in the English top-flight this season, and has now come in for high praise from Wayne Rooney.Speaking to Prime Video Sport, the former Manchester United striker was asked to name his top-three Premier League players this season.No Liverpool stars made the cut, but Rooney was complimentary about Semenyo, whom he selected as his first pick.Rooney said: “Top three, probably Semenyo.

I think he’s been brilliant for Bournemouth, carrying on his form from last season.”The Englishman went on to choose Bryan Mbeumo and Viktor Gyokeres as his other top performers from the current campaign. READ MORE: Danny Murphy reckons Arne Slot genuinely doesn’t rate one of his players at LiverpoolAntonie Semenyo supports Liverpool’s rivalWhile one report suggested Liverpool are confident about signing the forward, they may well hope Arsenal don’t also decide to make a move for him in January.Semenyo is a Gunners fan, previously revealing his love for the North Londoners in 2024.He said: “I am an Arsenal fan, I don’t conflict the two with my job.

It is great to play against Arsenal, a team I have watched all my life and I want to play for the top clubs as well. “In order for that to happen I need to prove it.”Arsenal were linked with the 25-year-old during the most recent summer transfer window, having previously been rejected by the Gunners as a youngster before joining the football programme at SGS College in Bristol.