BREAKING NEWS: Antoine Semenyo sets conditions as Manchester United talks progress under Ruben Amorim
Manchester United’s interest in Antoine Semenyo has gathered momentum after reports suggested the Bournemouth forward has reached an agreement on personal terms with the club, while also making it clear that certain assurances must be in place before he commits fully to the move.
Semenyo, who has impressed consistently for Bournemouth this season, is said to be open to a switch to Old Trafford but remains wary of making the leap without clarity over his role and progression under United head coach Ruben Amorim. The forward is believed to be enthusiastic about the opportunity but unwilling to rush into a decision that could stall his development.
Sources close to the talks claim Semenyo has communicated his stance directly, stressing that while he is prepared to join United, he needs guarantees that go beyond finances. Those comments have only fueled speculation as the January transfer window approaches, with United continuing to assess how best to reinforce their attacking options.
While wages and contract length are reportedly close to being finalised, the Ghana international is understood to have placed emphasis on two key non-financial points. He wants a clearly defined role within Amorim’s tactical setup and reassurance that he will be given a genuine pathway to regular minutes and long-term growth. Semenyo is keen to avoid a scenario where a high-profile move leaves him struggling for opportunities on the bench, a concern that has affected several players making similar jumps in recent years.
United’s interest in Semenyo is driven by his blend of power, pace and adaptability. Comfortable operating across the frontline, he brings direct running, strong ball-carrying ability, an aggressive pressing style and the flexibility to suit different tactical demands. These attributes align closely with Amorim’s preference for dynamic attackers who contribute defensively as well as offensively, and Semenyo’s performances at Bournemouth have not gone unnoticed across the Premier League. Despite competition from other clubs, United are believed to be in a strong position.
Amorim himself is thought to be playing an active role in the negotiations, determined that any addition to the squad fits his broader vision rather than serving as a short-term fix. Since taking charge, he has made it clear that recruitment should be purposeful and aligned with a defined style of play. Those familiar with the discussions suggest he views Semenyo as someone capable of making an immediate impact while also developing into a reliable long-term option, especially in games that demand physical presence and threat on the counter. At the same time, Amorim is reportedly cautious about offering guarantees that could undermine competition within the squad.
That caution is shared by United’s hierarchy, who are mindful of the precedent that firm promises of playing time could set. Instead, the club are said to be proposing a structured, performance-based route into the team, where Semenyo would be trusted with opportunities in a specific role but without automatic selection. Striking that balance has slowed progress slightly, even though there remains confidence on both sides that an agreement can be reached.
From Bournemouth’s perspective, there is no urgency to sell, but they acknowledge that sustained interest from bigger clubs was always likely given Semenyo’s form. The south coast club are expected to demand a substantial fee to part with one of their key attacking figures midway through the season, and talks over the structure of any deal are ongoing. United are believed to be considering staggered payments, potentially including add-ons tied to appearances and team achievements.
Among Manchester United supporters, the reaction has been largely positive, with many viewing Semenyo as a sensible, energetic option rather than a marquee signing driven by hype. Fans have welcomed the club’s apparent willingness to focus on tactical fit and long-term planning, although some have expressed reservations about accommodating player demands during a rebuild, preferring merit-based competition over assurances.
The situation is seen by many as a reflection of a changing approach at United under Amorim. Instead of chasing big names alone, the club appear increasingly focused on mentality, suitability and a readiness to earn a place. Semenyo’s requests underline a growing desire among players for clarity and structure, areas United have been criticised for lacking in the past.
Discussions are expected to continue in the coming days, with a breakthrough possible before the transfer window fully ramps up. Should United find a way to meet Semenyo’s expectations without compromising Amorim’s principles, the move could progress quickly. If not, alternative targets may be considered, while Semenyo remains on the radar of other interested clubs.
For now, everything hangs in the balance. The financial framework is largely agreed, the player is receptive, and the manager sees potential value. What remains unresolved is alignment between ambition, opportunity and trust. Whether Antoine Semenyo ends up wearing a Manchester United shirt will depend less on money and more on clarity and confidence in the project being offered.
