‘Absolutely’: Journo delights United fans by verifying INEOS are ‘firmly in the race’ for ‘world-class’ attacker

Manchester United are well in the mix to sign Antoine Semenyo when the January window opens.It must be said that they certainly aren’t alone in the race, though, as the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City have also set their sights on adding the Bournemouth talisman to their ranks next month.Antoine Semenyo: The state of play(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)In fact, both Manchester clubs approached the Cherries ‘in the last 48 hours’ to discuss Semenyo’s £65 million release clause, which becomes active at the turn of the year.His suitors will only have until a certain date to activate the clause in order to allow Bournemouth ample time to find a replacement.Semenyo’s stellar form over the last season-and-a-half has led to him establishing himself as one of the most sought-after wingers in Europe heading into winter, and despite United’s priority being a defensive midfielder, they’re seemingly unwilling to let such an opportunity pass them by. Season Appearances Goals Assists 25/26 (so far) 15 7 3 24/25 37 11 6 (Semenyo’s top-flight record)It could be that INEOS shell out the funds necessary for the Ghanaian – hailed as a ‘world-class’ talent by teammate Justin Kluivert – before acquiring a midfielder on a temporary basis, paving the way for a marquee signing to be made in the summer – when they’re more likely to go full throttle in their pursuit of either Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba or Elliot Anderson.In the event United can agree a deal for Semenyo early doors, the 25-year-old would provide the perfect cover for Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo, both of whom will miss the next month of fixtures due to their African Cup of Nations commitments.What one journalist is hearing about Semenyo and United(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)When pressed on whether the Red Devils were considered ‘frontrunners’ for the Cherries star this afternoon, Ben Jacobs told The United Stand: “Probably not. But are they firmly in the race? Absolutely!“Manchester United’s hope if they move on this is that Semenyo will pick a singular club, and then that will make everything relatively smooth.”