Manchester United will undoubtedly be one of a number of clubs considering triggering Antoine Semenyo’s January release clause. The Bournemouth star, who has been outstanding in the Premier League this season, is said to be available for £65m this winter, but The Athletic reports the terms need to be triggered by a specific date earlier.
However, United were interested in Semenyo last summer before signing him to a new contract, spending heavily on the likes of Benjamin Sesco, Matheus Cunha and Brian Mbeumo in the summer. While an exchange offer for the player could reduce the potential price, Bournemouth could do something to replace their star man. Here Express Sport looked at three players who could make sense to include in a swap deal…
joshua zirkzee
Joshua Zirkzee has completely fallen out of favor at United and needs a move to keep his World Cup dreams alive.
Bournemouth are not without options in attacking areas, but manager Andoni Iraola has used both Evanilson and Eli Junior Crupi this season. The starting point seems to be within reach.
Zirkzee’s playmaking ability could open up Justin Kluivert, Marcus Tavernier, David Brooks, etc., and potentially play alongside Evanilson and Junior Crupi.
He could leave on loan or permanently, depending on Bournemouth’s plans to replace Semenyo.
mason mount
Despite the additions of Cunha and Mbeumo, Mason Mount has been able to find meaningful playing time this season, especially in the absence of Sesco.
However, the arrival of another near-elite attacking midfielder like Semenyo would likely push the former Chelsea player down the pecking order.
While his injury record will be a concern, Mount has developed into a high-energy player who, when fit, will fit perfectly into Iraola’s system.
Coby Mainu
In a similar case to Zirkzee, Koby Mainu wanted to leave United on loan in the summer, knowing that his minutes would be limited behind Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro.
The England midfielder is desperate to prove he can get on the plane for next year’s World Cup and a loan to one of the Premier League’s most exciting teams could help him get there.
Bournemouth have an established midfield partnership in Alex Scott and Tyler Adams, but the former’s recent England call-up could mean the Cherries are knocking on the door for him soon. They would be wise to start succession planning now.
Mainu could also develop higher up the pitch under Iraola.
