Antoine Semenyo is expected to leave Bournemouth in January with Manchester City leading the race for the forward, who politely declined Tottenham's interest but could still help Spurs in the transfer market
Despite being snubbed by Antoine Semenyo ahead of the January transfer window, Tottenham could still profit from his anticipated departure from Bournemouth.
The 25-year-old forward is tipped to be the star attraction of this winter's transfer market, thanks to a £65million release clause that can be activated until January 10. Given his stellar performance for the Cherries this season, it's no wonder he's attracted interest from top Premier League clubs including Spurs, both Manchester teams, Liverpool and Chelsea.
However, recent reports suggest Semenyo has set his sights on joining Manchester City. Pep Guardiola's squad, currently embroiled in a title race with Arsenal, would undoubtedly receive a significant boost from Semenyo's arrival, enhancing their chances of outdoing the north London club come May.
According to The Athletic, despite a competitive wage offer from Spurs, Semenyo respectfully declined their advances. It later emerged that his preferred destination is the Etihad Stadium, with City now stepping up their efforts to seal the deal by January 1.
Despite the odds, Spurs haven't abandoned their hopes of strengthening their attack in the upcoming transfer window. Semenyo's move to City could trigger a transfer domino effect that benefits the London side, reports football.london.
Spurs were previously linked with City winger Savinho during the summer, but no deal materialised before the deadline.
Potential departures at Spurs could free up both funds and squad space for new attacking additions, with Brennan Johnson's name being floated as a possible exit. Sky Sports News reports a handful of Premier League clubs are eyeing the Welshman, with Bournemouth being the latest to consider him as a potential replacement for the departing Semenyo.
The report suggests that Johnson's name has been mentioned at the Vitality Stadium as they brace for Semenyo's exit, while Crystal Palace also have a strong interest in the 24-year-old. However, it remains unclear whether Spurs are ready to approve a sale or loan move in January, even though they're on the hunt for a new forward, which could impact the winger's future.
Johnson made the switch to Spurs from Nottingham Forest for just under £50million back in 2023. To date, he has clocked up just over 100 appearances across all competitions, netting 27 goals and providing 18 assists.
This season under Thomas Frank, he has only made six starts in the Premier League, with a total of 16 appearances. He's netted four goals and hasn't provided any assists across all competitions.
He did play in Sunday's narrow 1-0 victory over Palace, but once again began the match on the bench. He came on for Mohammed Kudus in the final 10 minutes at Selhurst Park as Frank's team clung to their slim lead, secured by Archie Gray's maiden goal for the club.
Spurs return to action midweek with an away fixture against Brentford. They then have to prepare for Sunderland's visit in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.