Liverpool is leading the race to sign Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo (25, Bournemouth).
British outlet CaughtOffside cited football-focused social media (SNS) Indykaila News on the 3rd (Korean time), reporting that Liverpool, led by manager Arne Slot, is ahead of Pep Guardiola's Manchester City (Man City) in the race to sign Semenyo.
According to local sources, unlike Liverpool, Man City may need to sell a "star player" to sign Semenyo, which leaves them somewhat behind in the competition.
Man City is targeting the £65 million buyout clause included in Semenyo's contract, which is about 12.63 billion won. They believe this option, which becomes active in January, will give Man City the opportunity to sign Semenyo.
But inside Man City there are opinions that "it would be a big burden to invest simply." Considering financial rules and wage structure, they say disposals of players with high salaries or who could be sold for large fees should come first.
On the other hand, Liverpool is seen as structurally more advantageous. In particular, Richard Hughes, who worked as sporting director at Bournemouth, has joined Liverpool and is believed to be able to create synergy during negotiations.
Semenyo is one of the most eye-catching attacking assets in the Premier League this season. Playing across all attacking positions from the flanks to the center, he has increased his presence with pace, finishing and unpredictable movement. Semenyo has recorded 6 goals (3 assists) in 13 league appearances this season.
Bournemouth, who are contracted with Semenyo until the summer of 2030, rejected several offers for him this summer. However, expectations are growing that it will be difficult to deter Semenyo's interest in the winter market when the buyout is activated.
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