Former Robins Star’s Big-Money Transfer to Etihad Triggers Sell-On Clause.

Antoine Semenyo

In one of the biggest deals of the January 2026 transfer window, Antoine Semenyo is closing in on a blockbuster £65 million switch from Bournemouth to Manchester City, triggering a substantial financial windfall for his former club Bristol City.

The 25-year-old Ghana international, who joined Bournemouth from Bristol City in January 2023 for around £10 million, has a £65 million release clause active in the early part of the window. Manchester City are in advanced negotiations to activate it, with personal terms already agreed and club-to-club talks progressing rapidly.

Antoine Semenyo at Bristol City

Thanks to a shrewd 20% sell-on clause inserted by Bristol City in the original deal, the Championship side stand to pocket approximately £11 million from the profit on Semenyo’s transfer – a huge boost for Gerhard Struber’s squad as they push for promotion.

Semenyo has been in scintillating form for Bournemouth this season, scoring nine goals and providing assists with his explosive pace, power, and direct style – qualities that have convinced Pep Guardiola to make him a priority target to bolster City’s attacking options.

Despite interest from rivals including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea earlier in the saga, City have emerged as the frontrunners and are expected to finalise the move soon after the window opens.

This transfer not only highlights Semenyo’s remarkable rise from Championship prospect to Premier League star but also underscores Bristol City’s smart business in player sales.