Paul Ince has advised Bournemouth’s Antonie Semenyo on what he should do in January amid interest from Manchester United.
Manchester United are still fresh off the frantic 4-4 draw against Bournemouth, with goals coming from Amad, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha.
Despite the defensive frailties that have been persistent all season, the previous two games have demonstrated the huge leap forward Ruben Amorim’s side has taken in the attacking areas, with eight goals scored.
United have scored the third most goals this season with 30 goals, just 14 fewer than their entire tally last season.
However, United’s forwards were not the only ones to impress, with one of last summer’s targets, Antoine Semenyo, also showing the Old Trafford faithful his talent.
Ince cautions Semenyo about a January move
Semenyo took his tally to seven goals this season after scoring an excellent goal towards the Stretford End.
The Ghanaian has gone from strength to strength this season, continuing his sublime form from last season and showcasing his versatility. Being able to play off either wing and also down the middle makes him an excellent addition for any side in the league.
United have been consistently linked to the Bournemouth forward throughout 2025, with the links not dying down. Amorim reportedly met with him for dinner last summer, but Liveprool, Tottenham, Manchester City, and Arsenal have all been linked, too.
Speaking to Covers, former Manchester United and Liverpool midfielder Paul Ince has raised his eyebrows at a January switch for Semenyo and advised against it.
“I was surprised that Liverpool or Manchester United didn’t sign Antoine Semenyo at the start of the season, because he’s a top player. He should wait until the summer transfer window to make a move; January isn’t a great time to move, and clubs often don’t like parting with players midway through a season.
“I don’t see him staying put beyond the summer, though. Bournemouth is great at sourcing players from all over the world, but ultimately, they’ve always been a selling club.
“He’ll have plenty of options on the table. He’s got all the attributes to improve even more too; he’s great on both feet, strong, quick and can bag you plenty of goals, as we’ve seen so far this year.”
He expanded on his point by pointing out that the race for Champions League football should play into his thinking for a player of his calibre.
“In terms of whether he’ll move to Liverpool or Man Utd, it depends on which one will finish in the top four and have Champions League football to look forward to next season.
“If I were in his position, I’d stay put for now at Bournemouth until the end of the season, and see which one of those teams finishes in the top four,” he said.
Spend the funds on the midfield
Of course, if the opportunity arose to buy a player like Semenyo, you would do it. After the success of signing Bryan Mbeumo, as well as Cunha finding his feet at the club, buying Premier League-proven talent seems to be the way to go.
However, missing out on Semenyo should not be a huge frustration. It is clear to see the issues that are going on in the midfield department.
Even with Casemiro and Fernandes striking up a decent connection, the space awarded to the opposition, as well as the profiles of player United have do not seem to suit the system.
With Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte seemingly not being fancied, United are one injury to their starters away from having to start players who lack sharpness. Padding out the squad with ready players who are Premier League proven should be a priority.
With the likes of Joao Gomes at Wolves and Ruben Neves reportedly available in January, they would be great market opportunities that suit the profile of player Amorim wants, especially as back-ups to Casemiro.
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