Latest transfer news today: Huge development in Antoine Semenyo saga as Aston Villa eye unwanted Spurs winger

Latest transfer news today: Huge development in Antoine Semenyo saga as Aston Villa eye unwanted Spurs winger
Latest transfer news today - Photo by IMAGO / News Images, Sportimage, Every Second Media

We are just days away from the start of the January window, with new developments and fresh rumours popping up left, right and centre. Here, we take a closer look at some of the latest transfer news today. 

One of the biggest stories of the day concerns the future of Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo, with one Premier League side stepping out of the race for his signature.

Elsewhere, Aston Villa are looking to build their strength in depth as they continue their hunt for a top-four finish.

Here are the biggest headlines of the day…

Man City plot shock deal for Harry Gray

Brenden Aaronson Harry Gray Leeds United
Manchester City are plotting a big move for Leeds United's Harry Gray. Photo by IMAGO / NurPhoto

Manchester City are reportedly plotting a £40m move for Leeds United’s teenage prodigy Harry Gray, and the Premier League giants are ready to throw in Kalvin Phillips to sweeten the deal.

Transfer journalist Alan Nixon believes the Citizens are determined to get their hands on the 17-year-old midfielder, who still plays for Leeds United’s U21 team and has a contract with the club until 2027.

This is a fascinating offer for the Yorkshire club, who could pocket an enormous fee from the sale of an unproven academy player while at the same time bringing back an experienced head and a fan favourite.

Phillips has seemingly dropped out of Pep Guardiola’s plans, and a move back to Elland Road could help revitalise his professional career. The midfielder's downfall is underlined by his estimated value on Transfermarkt, which has tumbled from £43m to £5m.

Tottenham end Antoine Semenyo pursuit as Liverpool push on

Antoine Semenyo pictured in action for Bournemouth
Antoine Semenyo is wanted by several Premier League clubs – Photo by IMAGO / Every Second Media

Tottenham have officially ended their pursuit of Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo, with the club setting their sights on other January targets, according to Sky Sports.

Spurs were one of several Premier League clubs looking to sign the Cherries superstar, with Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City all looking to land the 25-year-old’s signature.

Semenyo has a £60m release clause, and the latest reports from the Daily Mail indicate that Bournemouth are pushing the striker to clarify his future ahead of the January window.

Liverpool are said to be stepping up their interest in the Ghana international following the recent injury blow to Alexander Isak, which has left the Reds a little light in the attacking department.

Aston Villa make contact with Brennan Johnson’s representatives

Tottenham winger Brennan Johnson
Aston Villa are considering making a move for Brennan Johnson – Photo by IMAGO / Pro Sports Images

According to the latest reports from TEAMtalk, Aston Villa have made contact with Brennan Johnson’s representatives amid a possible January move for the Tottenham winger.

The 24-year-old has seemingly lost his spot in Thomas Frank’s Spurs team, starting in just two Premier League matches since the beginning of November.

Johnson’s current deal with Spurs runs until June, meaning the club may consider selling the player and recouping some of the £47.5m they spent to bring him from Nottingham Forest in 2023.

The Welsh international has an estimated value of £30m on Transfermarkt, though considering the limited amount of time on his contract, Aston Villa could secure his signature for less – even with Crystal Palace snooping around for a possible deal.


Sports writer for Football Whispers and various other titles. After completing a sports journalism degree at Leeds Trinity University, he went on to work for William Hill, Planet Sport, Football365, League Express, Yorkshire Evening Post, Halifax Courier and others.