Manchester City has officially signed forward Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth in a deal worth £62.5 million guaranteed, plus an additional £1.5 million in performance-related bonuses. This transfer was confirmed on January 9, 2026, following a successful agreement between the two clubs that did not require the activation of Semenyo’s release clause. The arrangement allows City to spread payments over 24 months, while Bournemouth benefits from a financial package exceeding the stipulated amount of the release clause.
Semenyo, 26, underwent medical checks on Thursday before finalizing a five-and-a-half-year contract that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until June 2031. He expressed enthusiasm about joining a club he admires greatly, stating, “I am so proud to have joined Manchester City. I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola, and they have been the dominant team in the Premier League.”
Player Performance and Previous Club Impact
During the current season, Semenyo has made a significant impact at Bournemouth, tallying 10 goals and three assists across 21 appearances in all competitions. He joined Bournemouth from Bristol City in January 2023, accumulating a total of 32 goals and 13 assists in 110 games for the club.
The Ghana international was initially valued at £70 million during the summer transfer window, but the agreed sale price was set at £65 million for the January window. This provided Bournemouth with a timeline to secure a replacement for their standout player. Other clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United, showed interest in Semenyo but ultimately did not pursue a deal.
Semenyo’s preference for Manchester City became clear in December, leading to an agreement that allowed him to feature in Bournemouth’s matches against Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham before completing his transfer. Notably, his final match for Bournemouth was a thrilling 3-2 victory against Tottenham, where he scored a dramatic added-time winner.
Future Aspirations and Upcoming Matches
Upon joining City, Semenyo indicated that he is excited about the prospects ahead. He remarked, “My best football is yet to come, I am sure of that. And City are in a great position – still involved in four competitions. I really feel I can help them have a strong second half of the season.” The forward expressed eagerness to play at the Etihad Stadium and showcase his abilities in front of the club’s passionate fanbase.
Manchester City is set to play against League One side Exeter City in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday, marking Semenyo’s potential debut with the club. The forward’s arrival adds depth to an already formidable squad and reflects the club’s ongoing commitment to securing top talent as they continue to pursue success across multiple fronts this season.
