Manchester City have signed Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth for an initial £62.5 million, with add-ons and a sell-on clause. He has agreed to a five-and-a-half-year contract.
The 26-year-old had attracted interest from Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United but chose City to boost Pep Guardiola’s attack as they chase Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Semenyo will wear the No. 42 shirt, last worn by club legend Yaya Toure. Speaking after the move, he said:
“I am so proud to have joined Manchester City. They have world-class players, facilities, and one of the greatest managers ever in Pep. To be here at this stage of my career is perfect for me.”
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He added: “My best football is yet to come. City are involved in four competitions, and I hope to help them have a strong second half of the season. The Etihad is my new home, and I can’t wait to play in front of the fans.”
Semenyo ended his Bournemouth career on a high, scoring a 95th-minute winner in a 3-2 win over Tottenham. This season, he has 10 goals in 21 games, following 13 in 42 last term.
City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, said: “He has huge quality – pace, power, two great feet, and a habit of influencing games. He is humble, hard-working, and ideal for us.”
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola added: “He never found excuses and always gave what we needed. He leaves with the feeling he deserves and a place in the hearts of our supporters.”
Semenyo’s signing strengthens City’s squad as they aim to close the gap on Arsenal in the title race.