Manchester United's pursuit of Antoine Semenyo may be hindered by a strategic decision made by Ruben Amorim, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth. The 25-year-old winger, who can be signed for £65 million with add-ons, has been a target for several clubs, including Man Utd, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Tottenham. However, Semenyo has already respectfully declined an offer from Spurs, leaving the race down to three clubs.
Sheth highlights a potential issue: Semenyo's role in Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation. The reporter suggests that Semenyo's position as a goalscoring winger, scoring more Premier League goals than Erling Haaland and Igor Thiago this season, makes it unlikely that he would be willing to transition into a wingback role, which would require more defensive duties. This could be a deciding factor in where Semenyo ends up, as Bournemouth can be ruled out due to the modest release clause.
The reporter also mentions the impact of Semenyo's signing on Joshua Zirkzee's future at Man Utd. Zirkzee is in talks with Roma for a loan deal, but United won't allow him to leave unless they bring in a new player. Semenyo is the top target for the attack-minded position, and his signing could force Zirkzee out.
The article concludes by discussing other transfer rumors, including the possibility of a Newcastle ace being signed and converted into a left wingback to replace a failed signing. It also mentions United's continued interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, but notes that his transfer is on hold due to valuation concerns.
