Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola insists Antoine Semenyo has not played his last game for the club.
The Pitch Prospect understands that Semenyo’s move to Man City is set to be formalized soon.
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City are in talks over the structure of payments for the winger’s release clause of £60m plus add-ons.
Semenyo has already agreed personal terms as he preferred a move to City over other Premier League clubs.
The 25-year-old was in the starting line-up for the draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening.
This was expected to be his final appearance for Bournemouth, which ended 2-2 – Semenyo received an assist during the game and also received a tough penalty for Chelsea’s first goal.
The winger was even seen waving goodbye to Cherries fans who had traveled with him.
However, coach Iraola expects him to play against Arsenal.
When asked about Semenyo’s future, Iraola said: “I don’t know what will happen, but he will definitely play.” [vs Arsenal]. This is not his last game.
“He needs to recover because we play at home against Arsenal, the league leaders, in another three days. He will be an important player for us, yes.”
Semenyo transfer at the latest
All of the Big Six clubs had shown interest in Semenyo, the most sought-after player of the January transfer window.
The team he faced on Tuesday, Chelsea, were desperate to make a move but quickly pulled out of the race.
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Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with the Ghana international.
The Pitch Prospect had previously reported that his release clause must be activated in the first ten days of the transfer window.
However, City have acted quickly to ensure the transfer is completed before the window opens.
Semenyo will be a marker for City in their pursuit of the Premier League title.
Now he could face the biggest title rivals Arsenal on January 3rd.
Semenyo has nine goals and three assists for the Cherries so far this season.