Man City close in on £65m Semenyo capture as January window approaches

Manchester City are finalising a deal to sign Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo in a move that could be confirmed as soon as the New Year, sources close to the negotiations have confirmed.

The Cityzens champions have made significant progress in talks over the last 48 hours and are prepared to meet the Ghana international's £65 million release clause. Following a positive call between the clubs today, only minor final steps regarding the payment structure remain before the transfer is sealed.

Semenyo, 25, is understood to be prepared to make the move to the Etihad Stadium and has already agreed to personal terms on a long-term contract. The player's representatives have been working with City officials to complete the formalities ahead of the January transfer window opening on January 1.

Pep Guardiola has identified Semenyo as a key target to add a different dimension to City's attack. The Bournemouth star has been in outstanding form this season with nine Premier League goals, establishing himself as one of the division's most consistent performers.

City's move comes after scouting the player extensively, with Guardiola particularly impressed by Semenyo's work rate and tactical intelligence. The forward's ability to play across the front line and his pressing qualities make him an ideal fit for Guardiola's system.

The arrival of Semenyo is likely to trigger movement elsewhere in City's squad, with several clubs monitoring the situation of young winger Oscar Bobb. The Norwegian talent could seek more regular first-team football elsewhere if Semenyo's arrival limits his opportunities.

For Bournemouth, the significant fee represents excellent business for a player they signed from Bristol City just 18 months ago. The Cherries are already preparing for life without their star attacker and have identified potential replacements ahead of the January window.

With personal terms agreed and the release clause set to be triggered, medical examinations and final paperwork represent the last hurdles before Semenyo officially becomes a Manchester City player. Both clubs are working towards having the deal completed in time for Semenyo to join City's squad for their Premier League clash against Chelsea on January 4.

The transfer would represent City's first major business of the January window and signal their intent to maintain their position at the summit of English football. For Semenyo, it represents a career-defining move to one of Europe's elite clubs and the chance to compete for major honours under one of the world's most respected managers.