Former English Premier League champions Manchester City have signed Ghanaian international Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth in a deal worth around £65 million.
The Cityzens beat other suitors to activate the £65 million release clause set by the Cherries for the 26-year-old which was set to expire on the 10th of January.
The Ghana forward moved to the South Coast from Bristol City for £10 million in January 2023 and departs as the club’s record sale in their history.
“I am so proud to have joined Manchester City. They have set the highest of standards and it’s a club with world-class players, world-class facilities and one of the greatest managers ever in Pep [Guardiola]”, Semenyo said after signing his contract.
“I have so much scope for improvement, so to be at this club, at this stage of my career, is perfect for me. It’s a real privilege to be here. My best football is yet to come, I am sure of that.”
Semenyo capped his final appearance for Bournemouth with a late winner in the 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur last Wednesday, giving them a first win in 11 matches.
The 26-year-old has scored 10 goals in the league this season, only behind new teammate Erling Haaland (20) and Brentford’s Igor Thiago (16).
He has signed a five-and-a-half year contract at Man City, potentially keeping him at the club until 2031 and will wear the number 42 shirt previously worn by legend Yaya Toure.
“It was my first number at Bristol City when I first signed and that always stuck with me”, he revealed.
“It was either 42 or 24, and 24 wasn’t available so I went back to my first number. That was the inspiration behind it.”
Semenyo is Man City’s first signing of the January transfer window and could make his debut against Exeter City later tomorrow in the FA Cup third round.
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