Nani Presses for Semenyo: United in the Crosshairs as Premier League Rivals Circle
12 December 2025
Transfer Saga: Semenyo’s Release Clause and United’s Push
Portuguese winger Nani has stepped into the swirling debate about the future of Ghanaian Antoine Semenyo, urging his former club Manchester United to move quickly and target the Bournemouth forward during the winter window, amid fierce competition from Liverpool and Manchester City.
Semenyo, who signed a new contract with Bournemouth last summer despite interest from United and Tottenham, holds a £65 million release clause that becomes active on January 10 next year, a deadline set by Bournemouth to ensure time to find a suitable replacement, and the clause will be reactivated in summer 2026.
Manchester United, which had shown interest in the player during the summer before turning to sign Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, still monitors Semenyo's situation closely.
But the situation grew more complex as Liverpool entered the fray, especially after Mohamed Salah's uncertainty, which opened the door to his possible departure, alongside Manchester City, which is weighing adding firepower to stay in the title race with Arsenal.
In an interview with the Metro newspaper, Nani urged his former club to act quickly and sign Semenyo, insisting his abilities fit perfectly with Manchester United's identity.
"Nani said, 'Why not? Any player who can burst with the ball, dribble, shoot, score, create chances, and possess immediate creativity; that is the kind that suits Manchester United.'"
He added, "This is the player the fans want to see, but we know playing for Manchester United is something completely different: the pressures, the mentality, the environment, and the player must adapt."
Nani continued, "I hope that if United signs Semenyo, he comes with a positive mindset and a sound mentality, and puts all his talent on the field to help the team."
PUNCHLINES: If Semenyo signs, United will finally have a player who can unlock defenses and maybe even unlock a few transfer rumors. And if the price tag keeps climbing, Bournemouth might start charging admission just to watch the drama unfold.
