Bournemouth are hoping Antoine Semenyo can make a farewell
appearance for the club when they face Chelsea on Tuesday night, as preparations continue behind the scenes for his expected move to Manchester City. According to reports from talkSPORT, the Cherries are keen for the forward to feature one final time before completing a high-profile switch to the Premier League champions.
As things stand, Semenyo remains available for selection, and Bournemouth are understood to be working on the assumption that he could still be involved against Chelsea — a fixture that may now carry added significance. While the transfer to Manchester City is not yet officially confirmed, sources suggest that negotiations are advanced enough for the club to begin planning around his departure.
Semenyo has been one of Bournemouth’s standout performers, and his potential exit represents a major moment for the club. His power, direct running, and versatility across the front line have made him a key figure, and his rise has not gone unnoticed by elite clubs. Manchester City’s interest is seen as a reflection of his development and growing reputation within the league.
For Bournemouth, allowing Semenyo to make a final appearance would offer supporters a chance to see him one last time in club colours, while also maintaining professionalism as the deal nears completion. Clubs often face difficult balancing acts in these situations — weighing the risk of injury against the desire to honour a player’s contribution — and Bournemouth appear willing to take that chance if all parties are comfortable.
From Manchester City’s perspective, Semenyo is viewed as a player who can add depth, intensity, and tactical flexibility. Pep Guardiola has regularly targeted forwards capable of operating in multiple roles, pressing aggressively, and adapting to positional demands, and Semenyo is believed to fit that profile. While he may not arrive as an immediate guaranteed starter, City see him as a long-term asset with room to grow within their system.
The timing of the move has also raised interest. City are known for acting decisively once targets are identified, and the expectation is that the transfer could be finalised swiftly once Bournemouth’s Chelsea fixture is completed. That would allow Semenyo to begin the next chapter of his career without unnecessary delay.
For Bournemouth fans, the news brings mixed emotions. Losing a key attacking player is never easy, but there is also pride in seeing a player earn a move to one of the world’s best teams. The club’s recruitment model has often revolved around developing players and selling at the right moment, and Semenyo’s rise fits that pattern.
As things stand, all eyes will be on Tuesday night. If Antoine Semenyo does take to the pitch against Chelsea, it may serve as a farewell appearance — the final step before a major move to Manchester City. Until then, the situation remains fluid, but momentum is clearly building toward a significant transfer.
