Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has addressed the swirling rumors surrounding the potential January exit of star forward Antoine Semenyo. The speculation intensified after reports emerged of a £65 million release clause in Semenyo's contract, sparking interest from several top Premier League clubs.
Iraola, speaking ahead of Bournemouth's weekend clash with West Ham United, sought to quell the transfer talk. "We are in November," Iraola stated, "Antoine is our player, he will continue to be our player. In January, you can ask me about it again, but I am not worried about January right now". He insisted that Semenyo would remain a Bournemouth player, dismissing any immediate concerns about a potential transfer.
Semenyo, 25, has been a standout performer for the Cherries this season, scoring six goals and providing three assists in 12 games. His impressive form has reportedly attracted attention from Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur. While Semenyo signed a contract extension until 2030, the inclusion of a £65 million release clause has opened the door for a possible move in the winter window.
Bournemouth general manager Tim Bezbatchenko acknowledged the club's position regarding Semenyo's future, admitting they would not stand in the player's way if a major European club came calling. "When a club like Real Madrid, Liverpool, PSG come in and they're competing for Champions League positions, who are we to say, 'No, you can't go, you can't fulfil your dream?'" Bezbatchenko said.
Despite the external noise, Semenyo himself has remained focused on his performances for Bournemouth. "I try to stay present as much as I can," Semenyo said earlier this month. "You see the news all the time, I see it as well, I'm not oblivious, but I try to keep focused. I don't think about it too much". He added, "I'm enjoying my football here. If I'm not scoring goals, all of that goes away".
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher recently suggested that Semenyo would be a valuable addition to Liverpool's squad. Carragher highlighted Semenyo's pace, power, and directness, suggesting he would offer a different dimension to Liverpool's attacking options.
According to reports, Liverpool have already held positive talks with Bournemouth regarding a potential move for Semenyo. It is believed that Liverpool is Semenyo's preferred destination should he choose to leave Bournemouth.
While speculation continues to mount, Iraola remains confident that Semenyo will stay at Bournemouth for the foreseeable future. The January transfer window is still over a month away, and much could change in the meantime. However, with Semenyo's release clause looming and top clubs circling, Bournemouth may face a battle to keep hold of their prized asset.
