Liverpool Activates Backup Plan as Man City Targets Antoine Semenyo

In a significant development in the January transfer market, Manchester City is reportedly poised to disrupt Liverpool’s pursuit of Antoine Semenyo, the talented forward from Bournemouth. City is prepared to activate the £65 million release clause in Semenyo’s contract, a move that has taken Liverpool by surprise and necessitated an urgent reassessment of their transfer strategy.

Semenyo has been on Liverpool’s radar since the summer, identified by manager Arne Slot as a key target to bolster the squad, especially with Mohamed Salah expected to miss time for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This season, the 25-year-old has excelled in the Premier League, scoring six goals and providing three assists, making him a highly sought-after player.

Liverpool’s Response to Potential Transfer Hijack

Facing the prospect of losing Semenyo to City, Liverpool’s recruitment team has activated a “Plan B,” compiling a list of alternative transfer targets to ensure they remain competitive both domestically and in European competitions. Sources close to the club indicate that the urgency is paramount as they seek to fill the potential void left by Semenyo.

The alternatives include:

• Kenan Yıldız (Juventus) – The 18-year-old Turkish sensation is considered a long-term investment. Yıldız recently broke a Juventus record previously held by Alessandro Del Piero and is regarded as one of Serie A’s brightest young prospects. However, Juventus is unlikely to sell mid-season.
• Rodrygo (Real Madrid) – The Brazilian forward is a potential elite option. Liverpool has reportedly made informal contact with his representatives, as Rodrygo is believed to be open to a Premier League move amid uncertainties regarding his starting role at Real Madrid. His versatility and experience make him an appealing fit.
• Iliman Ndiaye (Everton) – The Senegalese international is viewed as a viable short-term solution. His pace and creativity align well with Slot’s tactical requirements. Nonetheless, the rivalry between Liverpool and Everton complicates any potential transfer.
• Michael Olise (Bayern Munich) – Regarded as a “dream signing” for 2026, Olise’s technical skills and agility make him a perfect candidate to succeed Salah. Bayern Munich is unlikely to entertain offers until the summer, making this pursuit speculative.

Strategic Implications for Liverpool

The potential loss of Semenyo would have significant implications for Liverpool’s January transfer window. Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s Sporting Director, is in constant communication with the ownership group, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), to secure funding for a marquee signing. It is essential for the club to maintain momentum in the Premier League title race and the Champions League knockout stages.

If Manchester City successfully acquires Semenyo, it would add another layer to the fierce rivalry between the two clubs, both on the pitch and in the transfer market. Liverpool intends to act swiftly to secure a replacement, ensuring their attacking options remain robust, particularly during Salah’s anticipated absence.

As the January transfer window approaches, Liverpool’s focus is clear: whether it be Yıldız, Rodrygo, Ndiaye, or Olise, the club aims to fill the Semenyo-shaped gap efficiently, keeping their ambitions alive as they push for silverware this season.