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Tottenham can still benefit from Antoine Semenyo transfer after brutal snub
Football | December 30, 2025 5:39 AM CST

Tottenham could still benefit from Antoine Semenyo's expected move away from Bournemouth in January, despite the fact they were reportedly turned down by the player ahead of the transfer window opening on January 1.

Semenyo, 25, is expected to be the most high-profile transfer this winter due to the presence of a £65million release clause, which can be triggered up until January 10. His form for the Cherries this season makes it no surprise that he has been courted by a number of top Premier League clubs, including Spurs, both Manchester clubs, Liverpool and Chelsea.

However, widespread reports over the past week have pointed to it being Semenyo's preference to join Manchester City. Pep Guardiola's side are currently locked in another title race with Arsenal and the arrival of Semenyo would provide a significant boost to their hopes of pipping the north London club to the trophy in May.

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It was reported by The Athletic this month that, despite a competitive salary offer from Spurs, Semenyo politely declined their interest. It then emerged that his preference is to move to the Etihad Stadium, and City are now ramping up their efforts to get a deal finalised by January 1.

Still, it appears Spurs have not given up hope of bolstering their forward line in the upcoming transfer window, and Semenyo's move to City could prompt a transfer merry-go-round that benefits the London club. Spurs were, of course, linked with City winger Savinho in the summer, but a move did not come to fruition before the deadline.

Departures at Spurs could help free up funds and space in the squad for attacking reinforcements, and Brennan Johnson is the name being linked with a move away from the club. According to Sky Sports News, a handful of Premier League clubs are interested in signing the Welshman, with Bournemouth the latest to weigh up a move as a potential replacement for the outgoing Semenyo.

The report claims Johnson is a name that has been discussed at the Vitality Stadium as they prepare for Semenyo's departure, while Crystal Palace also hold a keen interest in the 24-year-old. However, it is not yet clear whether Spurs are willing to sanction a sale or loan move in January, although they are looking for a new forward, which could have implications for the winger's future.

Johnson joined Spurs from Nottingham Forest for a little under £50million back in 2023. So far, he has made just over 100 appearances across all competitions, scoring 27 goals and registering 18 assists in that time.

Under Thomas Frank this term, he has been restricted to just six starts in the Premier League, with 16 appearances in total. He has scored four goals and has not registered a single assist across all competitions.

He did feature in Sunday's narrow 1-0 win over Palace, but once again started the game on the bench. He replaced Mohammed Kudus in the final 10 minutes at Selhurst Park as Frank's side held on to their slender lead, which came courtesy of Archie Gray's first goal for the club.

Spurs are back in action midweek with an away trip to Brentford. They must then gear up for the visit of Sunderland in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.


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