In a blockbuster start to the January transfer window, Manchester City have secured the signing of Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo from AFC Bournemouth for a reported fee of £65 million. The 26-year-old winger has put pen to paper on a five-and-a-half-year contract at the Etihad Stadium, marking the Premier League's first major move of 2026.
A Dream Move to the Champions
Speaking after completing his high-profile switch, the London-born Ghana international revealed that Manchester City's sustained dominance under manager Pep Guardiola was the decisive factor in his choice. Semenyo, who was also a target for Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur, said he is ready to help the club usher in a new era of success.
"I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola, and they have been the dominant team in the Premier League as well as achieving amazing things in the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup," Semenyo stated. "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."
Ready for a New Challenge
The transfer comes as Manchester City seek to rebuild after a rare trophyless campaign last season and the departure of several key players. Semenyo, who has scored 10 Premier League goals this season, sees this as the perfect opportunity to grow and achieve more.
"I feel I'm improving but there are so many young players here who I think will be top players," he added. "I want to be part of that, and I want to rewrite history again." His final act for Bournemouth was a memorable one, scoring a spectacular stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory over Tottenham on Wednesday.
Guardiola's Verdict and Immediate Impact
Pep Guardiola confirmed that his new signing will be available for selection immediately, starting with Saturday's FA Cup tie against Exeter City. The City manager praised Semenyo's development and versatility.
"Everybody knows the qualities he has — he was playing extraordinarily at Bournemouth in the last few years and can play both sides," Guardiola said. "He's the perfect age, the best years are to come. All the clubs try to bring in young players, but he will make his career and best years here."
Semenyo's rise has been rapid, progressing from loans at Bristol City to a Premier League move in 2023 and flourishing under Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola. His arrival bolsters City's attack as they compete on four fronts, currently sitting six points behind league leaders Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Manchester City are also expected to be active in strengthening their defence this month following injuries to key players like Rúben Dias and Joško Gvardiol, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guéhi reportedly on their radar.
