Manchester United willing to sacrifice attacker for Semenyo move

Manchester United’s long standing admiration for Antoine Semenyo has moved back into focus following Bournemouth’s remarkable 4-4 draw at Old Trafford. Credit to the Mail for reporting the latest details around United’s interest, which has been sharpened by a performance that underlined why the forward continues to attract attention at the highest level.

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Ruben Amorim set the tone before kick off by describing Semenyo as “a special player”, and the Ghana international responded in emphatic fashion. His goal, Bournemouth’s first equaliser late in the first half, was a moment of clarity amid chaos, racing clear of Mason Mount from near halfway before beating Senne Lammens with a composed finish.

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Semenyo’s reputation has been steadily building, but this display felt significant. United know all about his £60.5m release clause, active in January and dropping to around £50m in the summer. Club sources have previously spoken about fast tracking deals to secure priority targets early, and Semenyo is viewed internally as falling into that category.

Yet the obstacles are clear. Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham are all monitoring the situation, while United’s own priorities complicate matters. A defensive midfielder remains the key need next month, and financing any forward move would require creativity.

One solution under consideration is the sale of Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch forward is wanted on loan by Roma, with United open to including an obligation to buy. That structure would mirror the £38m clause that formed part of Rasmus Hojlund’s move to Napoli, offering short term flexibility while reshaping the squad.

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For now, Semenyo remains a Bournemouth player, but his Old Trafford impact ensured United’s interest feels far from theoretical.

Watching Semenyo tear through United’s midfield and defence only reinforced a feeling many United fans already had, that this is exactly the type of forward United lack. Direct, powerful, fearless, and capable of turning moments into goals, he looked entirely comfortable on a stage that overwhelms others.

The quote from Amorim calling him “a special player” resonates because supporters can see the logic. United have too many attackers who drift through games. Semenyo imposes himself. That sprint from halfway was not just pace, it was intent, and that is something Old Trafford craves.

Concerns remain about priorities. Most fans would agree a defensive midfielder is essential, and there is understandable fatigue around juggling finances every window. Selling Zirkzee to fund a move feels pragmatic rather than ruthless, especially if the structure works in United’s favour.

The release clause complicates emotions. £60.5m in January feels steep, but waiting until summer risks losing him to rivals. For supporters, the fear is familiar, hesitation followed by regret. If United truly believe Semenyo fits the rebuild, then acting decisively would feel like progress rather than gamble.