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As Bournemouth's 25-year-old forward Antoine Semenyo enters a crucial period for deciding his future, Chelsea has reportedly withdrawn from the race for his signature, opting against further pursuit despite earlier inquiries. However, Semenyo remains a sought-after talent, with Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Tottenham among at least four other clubs understood to have made prior enquiries before the January transfer window.
The two Manchester clubs are believed to have had the most concrete conversations so far.
City in particular have made positive progress in recent days and believe they are well-placed to sign Semenyo.
Liverpool have also checked on the conditions of a deal and it remains to be seen if they accelerate their initial interest in light of Alexander Isak's broken leg.
Tottenham are believed to be outsiders for the signature of the Ghana international, who joined the Cherries in 2023 from Bristol City.
Semenyo has a £65m release clause that is only active for the first 10 days of January. That clause was necessary to keep him at Bournemouth when agreeing his new contract in July. The price, though, will drop slightly in the summer window.
Bournemouth accept they are vulnerable to losing their key player and willing to negotiate with any club prepared to allow him to stay with them until the end of the season.
From a financial perspective, well-placed sources insist interested clubs are all willing to pay a very similar remuneration package to Semenyo, whose final decision will be made with an emphasis on his personal sporting ambitions.
He turns 26 on 7 January and there is a recognition he is entering the prime of his career.
"I know there is lots of noise around him," said Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola. "It is not my concern, my concern is it doesn't affect his performances. It is not doing, he is very committed to the team and I hope we can keep him here.
With that in mind, it is understood Semenyo will prioritise a club he believes can provide him with what he views as the most suitable project to compete for major trophies on a long-term basis.
The location and impact on his family will also be a contributing factor, with a decision expected in the coming days.
