The transfer window is not open yet – but the rumour mill is in full flow, and the weekend was dominated by stories around the future of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo. 

The Ghana international is widely expected to be one of the big movers in January due to a £65m release clause in his contract that becomes active from next month.

MEZIESBLOG understands Man City are the frontrunners to sign Semenyo, whose current preference is a move to the Etihad Stadium. 

However, reports on Sunday from the Mail and Telegraph claimed Bournemouth were expecting Liverpool to make a rival bid for Semenyo in a late twist to the story.

The Times reported later that evening that City had stepped up their pursuit and were set for a meeting with Semenyo’s representatives in the next 24 hours. 

In that same report, it was claimed that Semenyo wants to choose his next club before the January window opens as he seeks a swift resolution to his future. 

The Times claim January 1 is viewed as a “decisive day” in the pursuit of Semenyo. If City have not all but wrapped up a deal by then it might be because other interest is being considered.

MEZIESBLOG understands Liverpool and Manchester United remain interested and there is still work for City to do to get the deal over the line.