The January transfer window could be about to deliver another major Premier League twist — and this time, Liverpool might be right in the middle of it. According to multiple reports, Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo has a release clause in his contract worth more than £65 million, possibly rising to £75 million, and the revelation has already sent shockwaves through English football.
For Liverpool, who are quietly planning their next big attacking move, Semenyo has emerged as one of the most intriguing options on the market. At 25 years old, the Ghanaian forward has grown into one of the most dynamic wingers in the league — combining explosive pace, fearless dribbling, and a relentless work rate that makes him a nightmare for defenders. Now, with Liverpool’s attack undergoing changes under Arne Slot, Semenyo’s name is being whispered around Anfield as a potential transfer surprise waiting to happen.
A Hidden Clause That Could Change Everything
Semenyo’s contract situation is what makes this story so fascinating. After joining Bournemouth from Bristol City in January 2023, he quickly proved himself as one of the club’s most valuable assets. The Cherries rewarded him with a new long-term deal that included a release clause — a mechanism that could allow a bigger club to swoop in if they meet the required fee.
But there’s a twist. While insiders confirm that the clause exists, it remains unclear whether it can actually be triggered in January or only in the summer. Journalist Graeme Bailey recently hinted that the clause is “more than the Dominic Solanke clause, which was £65 million,” but admitted that no one is yet certain if it applies mid-season. That uncertainty has only fueled the rumors surrounding Liverpool’s intentions.
If the clause can be activated in January, Liverpool could make a bold move to secure one of the Premier League’s most in-form forwards before their rivals do. But if it cannot, then Semenyo’s transfer saga could stretch into the summer — and that’s where things could get really competitive.
Why Liverpool Are Watching Closely
Liverpool’s interest in Semenyo isn’t coming out of nowhere. The club has been quietly monitoring him since the start of the season, impressed by both his production and his development under Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola. In 2025, Semenyo has taken his game to another level — scoring key goals, pressing intelligently, and showing the kind of hunger that has long defined Liverpool’s best attackers.
There’s also a deeper strategic reason behind the Reds’ admiration. With Luis Díaz’s future uncertain and Mohamed Salah edging closer to the final year of his contract, Liverpool need to start planning for the next generation of attacking stars. Salah’s dip in form this season has already sparked debates about when the club should move on and who might fill his legendary boots.
That’s where Semenyo comes in. His direct running, stamina, and ability to operate on either wing make him an ideal fit for the type of high-intensity football that Arne Slot is building. He’s not just a winger — he’s a versatile forward capable of playing across the front line, linking play, and pressing from the front. In short, he’s the type of player who fits perfectly into Liverpool’s DNA.
Competition Is Heating Up
However, Liverpool aren’t the only club keeping tabs on Semenyo. Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are also believed to be interested, with both clubs looking for fresh attacking options. Spurs view him as a possible complement to Son Heung-min and Brennan Johnson, while United are desperate for a player who can inject energy and consistency on the flanks.
But Bournemouth aren’t making things easy. The club has made it clear that Semenyo is not for sale — at least not cheaply. They are determined to protect their key player and would only consider negotiations if a team is willing to pay the full amount of the release clause. Sources close to the club say Bournemouth are “sending a message” that their star man is untouchable this season, especially as they continue to push for a strong mid-table finish.
That public stance, however, hasn’t stopped top clubs from lurking in the background. The knowledge that a buyout clause exists means Bournemouth may not be able to hold out forever — particularly if Liverpool decide to get serious in January.
The Perfect Fit for Arne Slot’s Vision
What makes Semenyo such an appealing target for Liverpool isn’t just his price or potential — it’s his style. Under Arne Slot, Liverpool are evolving from the pure chaos of the Jürgen Klopp era into a more balanced, possession-based side that still values intensity and work ethic. Semenyo’s profile matches that transformation perfectly.
He’s strong, quick, and tireless — the type of player who thrives in both transition and structured buildup. At Bournemouth, he’s proven that he can score goals, create chances, and defend from the front — three qualities that are essential to any forward who hopes to succeed at Liverpool.
Moreover, his mentality stands out. Semenyo plays with the hunger of a man who knows what it means to fight his way to the top. His journey from Bristol City to the Premier League has been built on determination and consistency — two traits that Liverpool’s recruitment team value above all else.
Liverpool’s Dilemma: Spend Now or Wait?
The question facing Liverpool’s hierarchy is simple but tricky: should they make their move in January or wait until the summer?
Triggering a clause worth more than £65 million in the middle of the season would be a statement of intent — but it also carries risk. January signings often struggle to adapt immediately, and Liverpool already have a relatively stable front line. However, waiting until the summer could open the door for Manchester United or Tottenham to strike first.
If Salah leaves at the end of the campaign, as many predict, Liverpool will almost certainly look to sign a marquee winger — and Semenyo’s name will be near the top of that list. Whether that move happens in the next few months or later in 2025 could depend on how the Reds perform in the Premier League title race and how aggressively they want to plan for the future.
The Road Ahead
For now, Semenyo remains focused on Bournemouth, keeping quiet about his future while continuing to deliver on the pitch. But make no mistake — his release clause has opened the door for one of the Premier League’s biggest transfer stories.
Liverpool’s recruitment team have made a career out of spotting rising stars before the rest of Europe catches on. If they believe Antoine Semenyo is the next piece of their attacking puzzle, then the coming months could bring a move that stuns the league — and perhaps signals the start of a new era at Anfield.
