Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Antoine Semenyo will be available for selection in this weekend’s clash against Arsenal, despite ongoing talk of a potential exit from the club.
Semenyo, 25, has been linked with an exit from the Cherries this month and has been reported to be close to a move to Manchester City.
The Ghanaian has a release clause of £65 million that will elapse on the 10th of January, leaving potential suitors with just a few days to complete a deal.
When asked about the winger’s availability for Saturday’s clash against Arsenal at the Vitality Stadium, Iraola gave a positive response.
“Yes, Antoine is going to play yes. I think the idea at least is that he’s going to be available for these two games that we have in a very short turnaround. I hope he can be here more time but I don’t know what is going to happen.
There is nothing signed. There are conversations and I understand a lot of the noise around but there is nothing signed. Antoine is our player and I hope – we want to keep him for a lot of time – but we want to keep him yes”, the Spaniard stated.
Semenyo has been one of the best performers in the EPL this season and has scored nine times and provided three assists for Bournemouth.
The winger has been linked with a move to the league’s top sides, but Man City emerged favourites ahead of the winter transfer window which became opened on New Year’s Day.
“He is playing very well and is doing the right things. He is a top professional, a top guy, he wants to help the team, he wants to help his team-mates and I have no doubt about that. I have no doubt he will do his best”, Iraola added.
“Obviously, he is a massive player. Not only this season. But, everyone has to give their best. If we lose Antoine, that is going to be a massive hit but you have to move on. It is like this in football.”
Bournemouth welcome Arsenal to the Vitality Stadium later tomorrow, in what could be a farewell match for their talisman Semenyo.
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