Chelsea Cool Interest in Antoine Semenyo Despite Transfer Enquiries

Chelsea have decided against entering the race to sign Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, despite making initial enquiries about the conditions of a potential deal.

The 25-year-old is widely expected to be on the move in January, with his contract containing a release clause that can be triggered during a specified period of the winter transfer window. That clause is understood to be set at £65 million, making him one of the most sought-after attackers on the market.

Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City have all signalled their interest in Semenyo, while Chelsea recently sought clarity on what would be required to complete a transfer. However, there is currently no intention from Stamford Bridge to pursue the matter further.

Although the structure of Semenyo’s release clause has attracted attention from several top clubs, his wage demands are expected to be driven up by competition. Chelsea are unwilling to compromise their established recruitment and salary policy, regardless of the player involved.

The £65 million clause is believed to consist of £60 million as a guaranteed fee, with a further £5 million in achievable add-ons, provided an offer is submitted before the agreed January deadline.

It is also understood that the release clause will reduce slightly during the summer transfer window, though not below the £50 million bid that Bournemouth rejected at the beginning of the previous window.

Bournemouth would also be required to share a portion of any profit from Semenyo’s sale. Bristol City, who sold the Ghana international to the Cherries for £10 million in January 2023, are entitled to 20 per cent of any profit generated from a future transfer.