Newcastle ‘make Antoine Semenyo top priority signing’
Newcastle United are eyeing a move to sign Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo as they look to strengthen Eddie Howe’s side.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 25-year-old is one of their primary targets ahead of the summer.
Howe is said to be keen on Semenyo, with his Premier League experience and range of talents making him an ideal option to strengthen on the right-hand side.
This comes after former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider that Bournemouth have no pressing need to sell and remain in a comfortable financial position.
On top of that, Semenyo still has four years remaining on his contract which is set to run until 2029 after he signed an extension at the end of last season.
That could throw a spanner in the works for the Magpies, who are believed to be assessing a number of key targets in the build-up to the window.
Football Insider revealed on 14 February that Newcastle are prioritising the signing of a right-winger in the summer despite Jacob Murphy’s performances.
Newcastle to make Antoine Semenyo move in the summer
Brown told Football Insider during the January transfer window that Newcastle had been interested in a mid-season deal but their financial position meant they would have to wait.
Now, the former scout who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted Semenyo remains high on their list of target and expects a move to be made.
“Semenyo is high on Newcastle’s list of targets,” he told Football Insider.
“He’s got Premier League experience, which Eddie Howe likes in his squads, and has proven his talents at Bournemouth so far this season.
“He’s quick, he scores goals, strikes the ball well – that’s what Newcastle are looking for in that position.
“They want to strengthen on that right-hand side and it’s become a real priority for them.
“Semenyo has been one they’ve been keeping an eye on for a while at this point.
“He’s really shone this season for Bournemouth, and has taken his game to a level which I must admit I was previously unsure he’d be able to reach.
“But I think he’d be a good option for Newcastle and wouldn’t be surprised to see them make a move.”
Chelsea to rival the Magpies in Antoine Semenyo swoop
Semenyo has been one of the Premier League’s standout players so far this season, playing a key role in a side which has stunned many by rising to fifth in the league.
However, that has meant Newcastle are not alone in their pursuit of the Bournemouth man, who has also attracted interest from the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal.
Now, Brown has told Football Insider that Chelsea are the latest club to show an interest in his signature and consider him ready to make the step up.
Bournemouth remain hopeful they can hold on to their key players beyond the end of the season, but rising interest could make the situation a difficult one.
For more Newcastle and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.