Manchester City have officially confirmed the signing of Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, sealing a major deal that brings the highly sought-after 26-year-old Ghana international to the Etihad Stadium.
The transfer sees the Premier League champions secure one of the division’s most in-form attackers, with the initial fee set at £62.5 million and a further £1.5 million potentially added through performance-related bonuses, bringing the total package to around £64 million.
This move marks a significant boost for Pep Guardiola’s squad as they aim to close the gap to league leaders Arsenal in the second half of the 2025/26 season.
Semenyo, who only turned 26 on January 7, departs Bournemouth after an outstanding campaign where he has already netted 10 Premier League goals and provided three assists in just 20 appearances, placing him among the top scorers in the league.
His time with the Cherries concluded dramatically with a memorable last-minute winner in a 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on his birthday, providing a fairytale farewell before his switch to the champions.
The deal was negotiated directly with Bournemouth, who had included a £65 million release clause active in early January, though City opted for a structured agreement involving payments across 24 monthly instalments rather than an immediate trigger.
This arrangement benefits both parties, with Bournemouth securing a record sale for the club while City gain a versatile, powerful forward known for his pace, two-footed finishing, physical presence, and ability to thrive in high-pressing, attacking systems.
Semenyo, a Ghana international with a wealth of Premier League experience, has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract that ties him to Manchester City until 2031.
He expressed his delight at joining the club, highlighting his admiration for Guardiola’s trophy-laden era and the opportunity to develop further alongside world-class talent.
The winger is expected to wear the number 42 shirt, previously donned by club legend Yaya Touré, and could make his debut as early as the upcoming FA Cup tie against Exeter City.
The transfer underscores City’s strategic recruitment approach, adding a player who combines goal threat with work rate and adaptability to their attacking options, potentially forming a formidable partnership on the flanks alongside talents like Jérémy Doku.
Having beaten competition from the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham, City have landed a player widely regarded as tailor-made for their style, ready to contribute immediately in their pursuit of more silverware.