Manchester United’s hopes of signing Antoine Semenyo collapsed after the club’s contract proposal failed to meet the expectations of the Ghanaian forward, ultimately paving the way for his move to Manchester City.
Sources close to the negotiations indicate that United identified Semenyo as a priority attacking target and held exploratory talks with his representatives following his outstanding performances for AFC Bournemouth. However, discussions stalled after United tabled a financial package that placed Semenyo on a lower basic salary than Matheus Cunha, a comparison that did not sit well with the player or his camp.
Semenyo is understood to have “taken exception” to the structure of the offer, viewing it as a lack of recognition of his Premier League output, consistency, and upward career trajectory. The 25-year-old believed his numbers, physical profile, versatility, and recent impact at top-flight level justified parity—or better—within the wage bracket proposed by United for new attacking recruits.
While United attempted to offset the lower base salary with performance-related bonuses, the proposal failed to shift Semenyo’s stance. The forward was keen on a deal that reflected his status as a proven Premier League performer rather than one heavily dependent on incentives.
The breakdown in talks proved costly. As United hesitated, Manchester City moved decisively, presenting a package that aligned with Semenyo’s valuation of his worth. City’s offer included a stronger guaranteed wage, a clear sporting project, and a long-term vision under Pep Guardiola, factors that ultimately convinced the Ghana international to commit his future to the Etihad Stadium.
City’s swift and structured approach contrasted sharply with United’s drawn-out negotiations, highlighting the growing gap in recruitment efficiency between the two Manchester rivals. For Semenyo, the clarity and respect shown by City were decisive, especially at a stage of his career where stability and progression are paramount.
The episode has since been viewed internally at Old Trafford as a missed opportunity, with United failing to capitalise on a player who was open to the move but unwilling to compromise on perceived market value and professional standing.
Semenyo has since completed his transfer to Manchester City on a long-term deal running until June 2031 and has already begun training with the Premier League champions, closing the door on what could have been a statement signing for Manchester United.
