Manager Rio Ferdinand has asked Manchester United to sign Antoine Semenyo after his goal in Bournemouth’s 4-4 draw at Old Trafford. The Cherries forward continued his fine form this season by scoring the opening goal in a special game on Monday night.
Semenyo took advantage of a mistake by Luke Shaw in the 40th minute to break through and score inside the post. His finish made the score 1-1 after United dominated an early attack. The forward has scored seven goals in the Premier League this season and is attracting the attention of several clubs as the January transfer window approaches.
Both Liverpool and Manchester City are understood to be aware that the Ghanaian international has a £65m release clause in his contract with Bournemouth.
However, former United defender Ferdinand wants Semenyo to play at Old Trafford rather than Anfield or the Etihad Stadium, and has made his thoughts clear on social media.
United posted: “Goal. Antoine Semenyo is at the level of the visitors.”
Ferdinand responded: “Don’t let him go home after the game,” with a crying-laughing emoji.
That was just one of many observations he made while watching the chaotic encounter from home. He was thrilled that goals from Amad Diallo and Casemiro gave United a 2-1 lead at the end of the first half.
“Great 45 minutes under (Ruben) Amorim at Old Trafford… tempo, passing through the line, creating chances. (Aiden) Heaven + (Lenny) Yoro looked confident. Lost concentration on goal, but reacted well!”
It’s entirely possible that Ferdinand is unhappy with Semenho, especially since United spent more than £200m signing Benjamin Sesco, Matheus Cunha and Brian Mbeumo in the summer transfer window.
However, Ghana manager Otto Addo believes Semenyo will secure a move from Bournemouth in due course.
“He did very well for Bournemouth and with all due respect to Bournemouth and the work they do, it makes sense for him to take the next step,” he told The Athletic.
“Winter or summer is another matter, but for us it makes no difference. We look forward to him showing more of what he can do to the world.”
