In a twist that could dramatically reshape the upcoming January transfer window, Manchester City are reportedly preparing to swoop in and derail Liverpool’s move for Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo — a player Arne Slot has been pushing to sign for months. City are said to be ready to trigger the £65 million release clause in the Ghanaian attacker’s deal, a development that has caught Liverpool’s hierarchy off guard.
Semenyo has been one of Liverpool’s priority targets since the summer, with Sporting Director Richard Hughes driving the effort to bring him to Anfield. The 25-year-old has enjoyed a standout campaign so far, registering six goals and three assists in the Premier League. Liverpool viewed him as the ideal reinforcement ahead of Mohamed Salah’s expected departure for the Africa Cup of Nations.
But with Manchester City now entering the race, Liverpool’s recruitment department has reportedly been forced into an urgent reassessment. Sources close to the agents’ network claim that a contingency plan is already being activated — a refined shortlist of both immediate and future attacking options designed to keep the club competitive in all competitions.
Liverpool’s revised shortlist includes:
Kenan Yıldız (Juventus)
At only 18, Yıldız is seen as a long-term investment. The Turkish forward recently broke a club record once held by Alessandro Del Piero, solidifying his reputation as one of Serie A’s most promising young stars. Liverpool believe he could evolve into a world-class attacker under Slot, although Juventus are reluctant to approve a mid-season sale.
Rodrygo (Real Madrid)
Liverpool are also monitoring the Brazilian winger, who is reportedly open to a move to England amid uncertainty about his role in Madrid. Informal contact has already been made with his camp. His Champions League pedigree and ability to play across the frontline make him an ideal fit, but it remains unclear whether Real Madrid would entertain an offer.
Iliman Ndiaye (Everton)
Considered the most realistic short-term option, Ndiaye shares many attributes with Semenyo — pace, unpredictability, and the ability to thrive in Slot’s system. However, negotiating with Everton brings the added complication of Merseyside rivalry.
Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
Seen as a potential marquee signing for 2026, Olise joined Bayern this past summer and fits the profile of Salah’s long-term successor. His technical quality and creativity make him a dream target, though Bayern are unlikely to sanction a departure until next year at the earliest.
What comes next for Liverpool?
Liverpool’s response to City’s attempted hijack will likely define their entire January window. Hughes and Slot are said to be in frequent discussions with Fenway Sports Group to secure the financial backing necessary for a major attacking signing — one crucial for maintaining their momentum both in the Premier League title race and in the Champions League knockout rounds.
Should Manchester City complete the Semenyo deal, it would intensify the rivalry between the two clubs, further extending their battles from the pitch to the transfer market.
For now, Liverpool are moving quickly to ensure they have alternatives ready — whether that means pushing for Yıldız, Rodrygo, Ndiaye, or Olise — to safeguard their attacking strength during.
