Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola stated on Tuesday that he believes Antoine Semenyo might play his final match for the club against Tottenham on Wednesday evening.
Manchester City is reportedly on the verge of securing Semenyo from Bournemouth after indicating their intention to activate his £65 million [$88 million] release clause.
According to sources, Semenyo, who turns 26 on Wednesday, is likely to undergo a medical examination with City on Thursday or Friday after Bournemouth’s match against Tottenham.
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While Iraola emphasizes that no agreements have been finalized regarding the future of the Ghana international, who has had an impressive season so far, he is also practical in his outlook.
“Antoine will definitely play tomorrow,” Iraola remarked during a press conference. “I can share my thoughts based on my experience, but there is no contract signed with Antoine Semenyo.”
“If you were to ask me, ‘What do you think?’ Given all the speculation, I believe it could be his last game, but I can’t confirm that.
“I understand the market dynamics and the surrounding conversations, but as of now, nothing is agreed upon, nothing is signed. So, as far as I’m concerned, he is still our player and I hope he stays.
“However, I also understand from my experience in the transfer market with this club and others that it’s possible this is indeed his last game.”
Bournemouth has announced that forward Justin Kluivert will have surgery on his left knee after sustaining an injury in the defeat against Arsenal last Saturday and will require a period of rehabilitation.
This report includes information from ESPN’s Rob Dawson and PA.