Manchester City have pulled off a major January transfer coup, confirming the signing of winger Antoine Semenyo from AFC Bournemouth for a substantial fee. The Ghanaian international has put pen to paper on a long-term contract at the Etihad Stadium, signalling the club's intent to reinvigorate their Premier League title defence.
Record Deal and Immediate Impact
The Press Association reports that City have paid an initial sum of £62.5 million to secure the services of the 26-year-old forward. Semenyo arrives on the back of a stellar first half of the season with the Cherries, having directly contributed to 13 Premier League goals, scoring 10 and providing three assists. His final act for Bournemouth was a dramatic stoppage-time winner in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur just days before the transfer was finalised.
Semenyo's Ambition and City's Title Push
The move represents a significant step up for Semenyo, who expressed his delight at joining the reigning champions. "I am so proud to have joined Manchester City," he stated. "I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola, and they have been the dominant team." He emphasised that working with world-class players and one of the game's greatest managers was the perfect environment to take his game to the next level.
His arrival comes at a critical juncture for Pep Guardiola's side, who have drawn three consecutive league matches at the start of 2026. This stumble has allowed rivals Arsenal to open a six-point gap at the summit, making Semenyo's goal-scoring prowess a potential catalyst for City's second-half charge. The player himself is confident, saying, "I really feel I can help them have a strong second half of the season."
A Dream Realised and New Beginnings
Born in London, Semenyo began his professional career at Bristol City, with loan spells at Newport County and Sunderland, before his 2023 move to the Vitality Stadium. At City, he will wear the number 42 shirt, a nod to his first squad number at Bristol. Crucially, the transfer offers him a first taste of European football, with City competing in the UEFA Champions League.
"As a kid you always dream to play in the Champions League," Semenyo reflected. "Thank God I’ve got that opportunity now. It’s a dream come true." With City still competing on four fronts, the ambitious winger believes his best football is ahead of him and is ready to seize his moment on the biggest stage.
