Manchester City have emerged as clear favourites to sign Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, with the player indicating the champions as his preferred destination, sources say.
The transfer race shifted significantly in the past 12 hours after Chelsea exited discussions, with Tottenham already out of contention. Manchester United remained interested until late stages, while Liverpool made exploratory contacts in recent weeks but did not submit a formal bid.
City have since intensified talks, making a strong push to close the deal swiftly. Semenyo has informed his agents, Bournemouth and City directly of his desire to join Pep Guardiola’s side.
The 24-year-old Ghana international has a reported £65 million release clause. City are now weighing whether to trigger the clause outright or negotiate a structured payment plan with Bournemouth. Negotiations are expected to accelerate in the coming days.