Semenyo’s stock soars as £70m breakthrough move beckons

Antoine Semenyo may be soaking up the sun on holiday after a taxing Premier League season, but the Ghanaian forward will be keeping his phone close — this summer could be the moment he makes the leap into football’s elite.

After a stellar 2024/25 campaign with Bournemouth, where he registered 13 goals and seven assists across all competitions, Semenyo has become one of the hottest names in the summer transfer market.

Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as frontrunners in a race that also includes Manchester United, Arsenal and Newcastle United. Reports from Sky Sports and Football Insider suggest that Bournemouth are prepared to do business if a bid in the region of £70 million is tabled.

Spurs, newly crowned Europa League champions, are gearing up for a Champions League return, and Semenyo’s profile fits perfectly with their ambitions under incoming manager Thomas Frank.

Though the North London club finished a dismal 17th in the league, their European triumph has bought them time and optimism — and chairman Daniel Levy is looking to reinvest decisively.

Frank, who is set to take over from Ange Postecoglou, is a keen admirer of Semenyo’s high-energy style, versatility and athleticism. 

For Spurs, who often struggled for dynamism up front last season, the Ghanaian could provide a much-needed injection of pace, physicality and attacking intelligence.

Making of a powerhouse

Semenyo’s rise has been no fluke. Since arriving from Bristol City, the 25-year-old has grown into a fearsome Premier League attacker. His physical attributes are eye-catching — powerful, quick and agile — but it’s his technical prowess that makes him such a nightmare for defenders.

Able to play across the front three, Semenyo’s ability to drive at opponents, ride challenges and beat markers inside or out has been a cornerstone of Bournemouth’s attacking play.

“A lot of people think I’m left-footed, but I’m right-footed,” he told The Athletic. “It makes it tougher for them. If they think I’m left-footed, I go right. If they think I’m right-footed, I go left.”

That dual-footed unpredictability, combined with his direct style and balance, gives him a unique edge. Whether he’s running the channels, cutting in from wide or bulldozing through the middle, he brings variety, threat and penetration.

But Semenyo isn’t just an individualist. His vision and awareness have improved markedly, often lifting his head while dribbling to spot teammates and slip intelligent passes into space.

His low crosses and cut-backs into the box have become a regular source of danger. While his chance creation numbers are still developing, it’s widely believed that a move to a top club with sharper finishers would enhance his assist tally significantly.

He’s a strong finisher too — composed in 1v1s, capable of lashing shots from range and confident striking with either foot. His aerial game adds another dimension, as he often bullies full-backs in the air and helps win second balls when his side goes long.

Perfect fit for Spurs?

Under Thomas Frank’s pressing system, Semenyo’s relentless work ethic and defensive contribution would be hugely valuable. He is known for tracking back with intensity, pressing opponents aggressively and disrupting opposition build-up play — all hallmarks of Frank’s philosophy at Brentford.

He doesn’t just play football — he works for the badge. His pressing from the front, strength in duels and unselfish runs make him a modern forward in every sense.

Tottenham, in desperate need of fresh ideas in attack after an erratic domestic campaign, view Semenyo as a player who can immediately raise their level. James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski struggled for consistency last season, and Semenyo’s arrival could provide not only competition but also tactical flexibility.

Liverpool are also said to be monitoring his situation, particularly if Colombian winger Luis Díaz leaves for Barcelona. But Tottenham’s need is more urgent, and with Frank's appointment imminent, the stars may be aligning in North London.

Career-defining window

This summer represents more than just a transfer for Semenyo — it’s a shot at the big time. He’s entering his prime and coming off his most productive season to date. With his value at an all-time high, this is a rare moment to make a strategic leap — both for footballing progression and financial reward.

Bournemouth, understandably, want to keep their talisman. But the allure of Champions League nights, global exposure and the opportunity to compete with and against the best could be too great to resist.

To his credit, Semenyo has kept a level head amid the growing frenzy. “It’s great to hear they’re interested — I don’t know how true it is — but I just want to focus on my game,” he said earlier this season.

That professionalism only adds to his appeal. Clubs aren’t just buying ability — they’re investing in attitude, potential and a player who knows his worth but isn’t letting the hype distract him.

From his days at Bristol City to starring on the south coast and now eyeing a move to Europe’s top table, Semenyo’s story is one of persistence, growth and rising ambition.

Tottenham’s interest is no surprise — and if Spurs do meet Bournemouth’s £70m valuation, the Ghanaian could be on his way to the biggest stage of all.