Manchester City have strengthened their attacking options after confirming the signing of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo in a deal reportedly worth £65 million ($87 million).
The 26-year-old attacker, who has found the net 10 times in the Premier League this season, has committed his future to the champions by signing a five-and-a-half-year contract.
Several top English clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, were also tracking the London-born Ghana international. Semenyo’s move comes just ahead of the expiration of a reported buyout clause that was due to lapse on Saturday.
“I am so proud to have joined Manchester City,” said Semenyo.
“I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola, and they have been the dominant team in the Premier League as well as achieving amazing things in the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup.
“They have set the highest of standards and it’s a club with world-class players, world-class facilities and one of the greatest managers ever in Pep.”
Semenyo arrives at the Etihad Stadium on the back of a dramatic farewell performance for Bournemouth, where he struck a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory over Tottenham on Wednesday. The goal brought an end to the Cherries’ 11-match winless streak and underlined his growing reputation as a decisive attacking presence.
City are hoping the Ghanaian forward will add firepower as they pursue trophies on four fronts in 2026. Pep Guardiola’s side currently sit six points behind league leaders Arsenal and face a demanding schedule across the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and Champions League in the coming weeks.
The timing of the signing is significant, with City short of options on the flanks. Savinho is sidelined with injury, while Omar Marmoush is away on international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Semenyo’s arrival represents the first major transfer involving a Premier League club during the January window. City are also expected to reinforce their defence following injuries to key figures Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol.
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, has emerged as City’s leading defensive target.
Semenyo’s career trajectory has been remarkable. After being loaned out three times by Bristol City in his early years, he eventually secured a Premier League move in 2023. Under Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, he has developed into one of the division’s most dangerous wide attackers over the past two seasons.
“I have so much scope for improvement, so to be at this club, at this stage of my career, is perfect for me. It’s a real privilege to be here,” added Semenyo.
“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.”
Semenyo could make his first appearance in a City shirt as early as Saturday when Guardiola’s side host third-tier Exeter City in the FA Cup at the Etihad Stadium.
What you should know
Antoine Semenyo’s move to Manchester City marks a major step in his rapidly rising career and signals Pep Guardiola’s intent to refresh his attacking options midway through the season.
The Ghana international joins at a crucial point, with City competing on multiple fronts and dealing with injuries and international absences. Semenyo’s pace, physicality and goal threat add depth to the squad as City chase domestic and European honours.
His journey from repeated loan spells at Bristol City to a high-profile Premier League transfer highlights his development into one of England’s most effective wingers.
