United set to launch blockbuster winter raid for “unique” PL phenom, will send shockwaves across football – report

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to launch a blockbuster raid for Antoine Semenyo in January to fend off interest from their Premier League rivals in the Bournemouth winger. Eyed by England’s Elite Semenyo, 25, has firmly established himself as one of the best players in England this year after a red-hot start with six goals and three assists in 11 games. Only Erling Haaland has more goal contributions this season. It represents an improvement on an already strong campaign last year as he looks set to enjoy the best season of a career, one which has taken him from League Two to the Premier League across five storied years. Antoine Semenyo 24/25 stats CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsMinutes Premier League371163210 FA Cup421330 EFL Cup1–22 Total421373562 Statistics provided by Transfermarkt The Ghana international, who will depart for the African Cup of Nations next month, has been essential to Bournemouth’s excellent form, despite Andoni Iraola losing numerous key players over the summer. The Cherries are ninth, but just four points off second and level with United, while their underlying metrics place them far higher up the table. Semenyo’s continued progression, demonstrated by a noticeable improvement in his efficiency in front of goal this season, as well as his outstanding selection of physical attributes, makes him an attractive target for the division’s biggest clubs. The Premier League has undergone a seismic shift towards speed and strength being king in recent years; a player must have a base level of physicality to succeed in England, or else they will be unable to impose themselves on games. United’s failed signings of Jadon Sancho and Antony demonstrate this issue – and the signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo in the summer illustrate recognition of it at Old Trafford. But Semenyo was also a target for the Red Devils, with Ruben Amorim a huge fan of the 25-year-old , who is equally comfortable playing on the left or right – a quality the Portuguese coach holds in high regard. And it’s this admiration of a player, who combines pace, power and productivity, which is driving United’s continued interest in Semenyo with reports indicating the club are weighing up a January transfer to test Bournemouth’s resolve. However, they face a red-hot battle with their rivals – Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City are all credited as suitors, with the Merseyside club believed to be leading the race – for the winger. United Plan to Strike First Sources close to the club indicate United are planning to “move fast to see off competition” by completing a deal in January, according to Caught Offside. The report states the Red Devils are “increasingly keen” to pursue a move in the winter window, despite the difficulties involved in doing so, as they believe it will prove key to beating out their rivals. The projects on offer at Anfield, the Emirates or the Etihad may prove more attractive propositions come the summer – but if Semenyo is offered the choice between Old Trafford and the Vitality Stadium in January, it may be enough to sway his decision. A report relayed by The Peoples Person revealed Semenyo has asked to leave, but Bournemouth are adamant they “do not want to sell” their prized asset. Caught Offside contend the price will reach “closer to £80m” than the £65m quoted to suitors in the summer. United’s interest in Semenyo is beyond question. Whether INEOS would be able to pull off such a costly deal in January with the club’s finances already stretched is an entirely different proposition, however. Featured image Lewis Storey via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.