Manchester United are assessing a potential January transfer for Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo as doubts persist over their long-term options on the left side. The 25-year-old has emerged as United’s preferred target in that area, with a £65 million release clause set to become active when the transfer window opens.
Semenyo’s profile fits United’s recent recruitment approach, which has shifted towards proven Premier League performers. The club activated Matheus Cunha’s £62.5m clause at Wolves in the summer and also moved for Ipswich striker Liam Delap due to his £30m release clause. Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo had both built significant Premier League experience before arriving at Old Trafford, a trend United appear keen to continue.
The Bournemouth winger reinforced his credentials on Monday night by scoring his seventh league goal of the season in a dramatic 4-4 draw with United, ending a two-month scoring run. His tally now exceeds that of any United player in the league, and with Ghana failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, he would be available throughout the winter period.
United’s interest is driven by uncertainty over Patrick Dorgu, who has started only two of the club’s last ten matches since joining from Lecce in a £30m deal. Ruben Amorim has publicly acknowledged the defender’s struggles on the ball, while internal sources suggest he was brought in too early as a first-choice option. Although Diogo Dalot has recently impressed on the left, alternatives remain limited, with teenage signing Diego Leon yet to debut and Tyrell Malacia effectively out of contention.
