Ornstein: United one of two ‘leading contenders’ for ‘world-class’ Premier League whiz in January

David Ornstein has credited Manchester United as one of two ‘leading contenders’ for Antoine Semenyo in January – alongside their arch-rivals Manchester City.Ornstein first broke the news of Semenyo’s £65 million release clause in November, adding that Bournemouth are likely to be ‘powerless’ in preventing their talisman from leaving mid-season due to the clause being added to his terms over the summer.Amidst interest from United and Tottenham Hotspur, the attacker decided to put pen to paper on a five-year extension at the Vitality Stadium, but seemingly only did so to ensure he could oversee a relatively seamless departure when the time came for him to pursue a new venture.What Ornstein said about Semenyo and United(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)Now looks to be that time, as Ornstein has claimed a winter sale of Semenyo is ‘highly possible’.“The names that are emerging as the leading contenders right now are Manchester City and Manchester United – in no particular order,” he told NBC Sports. “The names that are emerging as leading contenders right now are Manchester City and Manchester United.”@David_Ornstein has the latest on Antoine Semenyo’s future with the January transfer window looming. pic.twitter.com/Z6L7dgm5Be — NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) December 21, 2025“Liverpool are said to have had great admiration for him. They haven’t moved to the same extent so far, but let’s see if anything changes around the [Alexander] Isak injury situation.“Tottenham were keen, and I’m led to believe they were prepared to pay a significant salary to Semenyo, but he’s politely focusing on other options, mainly City or United.“Arsenal might’ve looked at the situation, but more towards the summer, and I don’t think he’s willing to wait until that point.”Why clubs are so keen on Semenyo this winter (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)This campaign, the 25-year-old has essentially picked up where he left off in regard to the tantalising form he was in throughout 2024/2025. Appearances Goals Assists 37 11 6 *Semenyo’s Premier League record last seasonEven whilst the Cherries’ results have faltered in recent weeks, Semenyo has already recorded a hugely impressive eight goals and three assists in 16 appearances, making it no surprise clubs are queuing up for his signature.From United’s point of view, the Ghanaian – hailed as ‘world-class’ by teammate Justin Kluivert – could be a transformative addition while Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo are away at the African Cup of Nations – not to mention the fact that Bruno Fernandes sustained an injury last night and is now facing a spell on the sidelines.