Antoine Semenyo has joined Manchester City from Bournemouth for a reported fee of £65 million ($130 million). The 26-year-old, who has scored 10 Premier League goals this season, signed a five-and-a-half-year deal at the Etihad Stadium.
Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham had also expressed interest in the Ghana international. This transfer marks the first significant move by Premier League clubs in the current January window.
Semenyo stated his ambition to contribute to City's future success, remarking, "I want to be part of that, and I want to rewrite history again." His last appearance for Bournemouth saw him score a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory against Tottenham.
Manchester City, currently six points behind Arsenal in the Premier League, aims to bolster its squad for challenges across the FA Cup, League Cup, and Champions League. The club's wide attacking options are currently limited due to Savinho's injury and Omar Marmoush's participation in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Semenyo's career has seen him rise significantly since initial loan spells from Bristol City. He moved to the Premier League in 2023 and has become a key winger for Bournemouth under manager Andoni Iraola.
City manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Semenyo would be available for City’s FA Cup match against Exeter. Guardiola commented on Semenyo's qualities, noting his performance at Bournemouth and his versatility on both sides of the pitch. He also highlighted Semenyo's age, suggesting his best years are ahead.
Manchester City is also reportedly seeking to strengthen its defensive options, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi identified as a primary target following injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol.