Manchester United legend Nani has urged his former club to move quickly in the January transfer window as interest grows around Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo. With several Premier League heavyweights monitoring the Ghana international, the former United winger believes hesitation could cost the Red Devils a valuable signing.
Semenyo has emerged as one of the most exciting wide attackers in English football over the past 18 months. His explosive pace, direct dribbling, and growing end product have made him a standout performer at the Vitality Stadium, prompting speculation that a major move could be imminent.
According to reports, Semenyo has a £65 million release clause in his contract—an amount that has placed multiple top clubs on alert ahead of the January 2026 transfer window.
Semenyo’s Rise Makes Him One of the Premier League’s Hottest Prospects
Since the start of last season, Antoine Semenyo has recorded 17 goals and eight assists across all competitions, an impressive return for a winger operating in a mid-table side. His consistency, physicality, and versatility across the front line have made him indispensable for Bournemouth.
The 25-year-old has not only improved his finishing but also become more decisive in key moments, often carrying Bournemouth’s attacking threat almost single-handedly. As a result, questions continue to grow over how long the Cherries can realistically keep hold of their star asset.
With Bournemouth currently hovering around mid-table and struggling for consistency, the prospect of losing Semenyo in January would represent a major blow to head coach Andoni Iraola.
Nani: Semenyo Fits the Manchester United DNA
Speaking to Metro, Nani made it clear that Semenyo possesses many of the attributes traditionally associated with Manchester United’s attacking players.
“I think any player who can run fast, dribble, shoot, score goals, provide assists, and be creative in decisive moments fits Manchester United,” Nani said.
“That’s the kind of football the fans want to see.”
However, the former Portugal international also offered a note of caution, acknowledging the unique pressures that come with playing at Old Trafford.
“When players arrive at Manchester United, the environment is completely different,” he explained. “The pressure, mentality, and responsibility are higher. They have to adapt quickly.”
Nani stressed that talent alone is not enough to succeed at United, highlighting the importance of mindset and character.
Mentality Will Be Key if Semenyo Moves to Old Trafford
Nani expressed hope that if Manchester United do pursue and secure Semenyo’s signature, the winger would arrive with the right mentality to handle expectations.
“I hope that if United sign Semenyo, he comes with the right attitude and mentality,” Nani said. “If he does that, he can show all his quality on the pitch and really help the team.”
Manchester United are currently rebuilding under head coach Ruben Amorim, with recruitment focused on players who combine athleticism with tactical discipline. Semenyo’s physical profile and work rate are believed to fit that vision, making him an increasingly attractive target.
Competition Heats Up as Rivals Circle
Manchester United are far from alone in the race for Semenyo. Liverpool and Manchester City are both reported to be closely monitoring the situation, adding urgency to any potential move.
Liverpool’s interest is particularly notable given the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s long-term future at Anfield. Semenyo has been viewed internally as a possible long-term successor, and Liverpool’s scouting interest predates the recent tensions involving Salah.
Another factor working in Liverpool’s favor is Ghana’s absence from the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, meaning Semenyo would be fully available throughout January—an attractive prospect for clubs wary of losing players mid-season.
Why Manchester City Remain a Threat
Manchester City, meanwhile, may not have an immediate need in wide attacking areas, given their depth with players such as Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku, Savinho, and Omar Marmoush. Nevertheless, City’s track record suggests they rarely ignore opportunities to sign elite-level talent when release clauses provide clarity.
The chance to join a club competing consistently for the Premier League title and Champions League remains a powerful pull for any ambitious player, and Semenyo is no exception.
Bournemouth Face a Critical Decision
For Bournemouth, January represents a delicate balancing act. Retaining Semenyo could be vital in stabilizing their league position, but a release clause removes much of their control if a club is willing to meet the valuation.
Should multiple clubs activate the clause, the decision will rest largely with the player—placing Manchester United under pressure to present a compelling sporting project.
United Told to Act, Not React
Nani’s message is clear: if Manchester United truly believe Antoine Semenyo can elevate their attack, they cannot afford to wait.
In a transfer market where elite wingers are in high demand and competition is fierce, decisive action may prove the difference between landing a rising Premier League star—or watching him strengthen a direct rival.
As January approaches, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see whether United heed the advice of one of their most iconic wingers and move swiftly for Antoine Semenyo.
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