The race for Antoine Semenyo looks to be concluded with Manchester City walking out triumphant, but this might actually be a good thing for Manchester United.
Don’t get us wrong, Antoine Semenyo is a spectacular player, having the season of his life, but he wasn’t worth the struggle the past few days indicated.
Semenyo snubbed Manchester United for Manchester City, with trophies and wages also playing a part in his decision-making over recent days.
What is your message to Antoine Semenyo?
Has he made a mistake choosing to join City? What should United do now?
As a result, United have identified Yan Diomande as an alternative, although they won’t be trying to sign him until the summer of 2026, which shows Semenyo was more of an opportunity than a necessity this winter.
However, United do have some absolute necessities in January, and Semenyo turning down a move just means the Red Devils can make more important moves than adding another versatile forward who isn’t as good as Bryan Mbeumo or Matheus Cunha.
Antoine Semenyo might have just pushed Manchester United into midfield market
While signing Semenyo would have been exciting, it wasn’t what United needed.
Semenyo isn’t some mercurial talent, and United can easily sign another forward in the summer, but right now the need is in midfield, and it’s clear the club has £60m or so to spend.
Who should now be Man Utd’s top transfer target in January 2026?
After missing out on Antoine Semenyo, who should Manchester United be targeting?
United will need a handful of new midfielders in 2026, and January is the perfect time to start, with Kobbie Mainoo potentially exiting on loan, Manuel Ugarte simply not good enough to play for the club, and Bruno Fernandes out for a month.
There are options for the Red Devils to significantly bolster Ruben Amorim’s options in the middle of the park.
Chances are, additions in January will be cheap or market opportunities, while the true crown jewel of Elliot Anderson or Carlos Baleba awaits in the summer.
Which midfielders can Manchester United sign in January?
Ahead of January, there are several midfielders available for United to buy.
Ruben Neves is set to cost just £18m as Al Hilal cashes in ahead of his contract expiring.
Meanwhile, United could also make a move to sign Olympiacos’ wonderkid Christos Mouzakitis. The Golden Boy winning midfielder is top class, and United have been linked with a bid to sign Mouzakitis.
Another potential January option might be Wolves’ Joao Gomes, who could be available with his club virtually already relegated.
One other option could see United trigger Angelo Stiller’s release clause worth £35m, which might be a real coup for whoever signs him.
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