Man Utd can save millions on Semenyo by unleashing 17-year-old academy star
Manchester United is prepared to make a significant push to acquire Antoine Semenyo this winter. The Ghanaian winger appears poised to depart from Bournemouth in the coming weeks and has a £65m release clause that will expire on January 10th. A report from Fabrizio Romano earlier this week indicated that United remains in the hunt for the Cherries talent and is actively “pushing” for his transfer. However, David Ornstein has since disclosed that Semenyo seems inclined to decline the Red Devils’ offer, expressing a preference to join local rivals Manchester City.
However, what was it that Ruben Amorim recognized in Semenyo that made him such a desirable target?
Why Man Utd needed to sign Semenyo
It is clear that Semenyo is among the most outstanding performers in the Premier League this season. In just 16 appearances, he has already netted eight goals and provided three assists. His total of 11 goal contributions is only surpassed by Erling Haaland and United’s own captain, Bruno Fernandes.
Without a doubt, Semenyo would enhance the quality of this Red Devils squad. Former Premier League midfielder and current Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp described the Ghana international as “an incredibly unique talent” and remarked that he is “so easy on the eye.”
Yet, it’s not just Semenyo’s effective and pleasing playing style that makes him an appealing acquisition for United. He would also offer remarkable versatility to the club. Primarily a winger, Bournemouth’s number 24 is capable of filling one of the number 10 positions, a role that Bryan Mbeumo has taken on since joining United. Alternatively, he could serve as a wing-back, similar to how Amad plays, thereby operating in zones akin to his wing position. This flexibility would surely benefit Semenyo and inject additional attacking dynamism into United’s play.
Nonetheless, Amorim could potentially save a substantial sum by activating this transfer and instead opting to promote an academy talent to fulfill a similar function.
Man United’s in-house Semenyo alternative
Amorim has faced criticism regarding his infrequent use of players from United’s academy. While this issue has deep roots, he did manage to introduce two youngsters last weekend, bringing on Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey during the match against Aston Villa. Perhaps the next Carrington product to make a mark could be 17-year-old Bendito Mantato. The Manchester-born prospect was on the bench at Villa Park on Sunday, but did not enter the game for his debut.
This season, Mantato has stood out within United’s academy. He has played 18 matches across various competitions, scoring three times and providing two assists. This brings his total in youth football for the Red Devils to 19 goals and eight assists. A notable aspect of Mantato’s game is his ability to play as a wing-back. Described as “similar to Saka” by Como scout Ben Mattinson, he, like the United academy talent, initially emerged as a wing-back, although the 17-year-old primarily identifies as a winger.
This adaptability is particularly impressive given his lack of experience at the senior level and demonstrates that he possesses the capability to perform as a wing-back under Amorim’s guidance.
Much like the elusive Semenyo on the left flank, Mantato’s speed and directness could indeed challenge opponents, providing vital attacking energy to United’s lineup.
Mantato played a crucial role for England U17s during their World Cup campaign last month. Playing as a left-back, he showcased excellent offensive instincts, averaging 1.2 created chances per game, as well as making 2.5 tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes.
Mantato key stats – U17 World Cup
| Stat | Per 90 mins | Tournament total |
|---|---|---|
| Minutes | 72.8 | 364 |
| Key passes | 1.2 | 5 |
| Dribbles completed | 0.7 | 3 |
| Tackles & interceptions | 2.5 | 10 |
| Aerial duels won | 1.2 | 5 |
Stats from Sofascore
United places great emphasis on nurturing young talent from its academy. If Amorim utilizes Mantato as a wing-back, not only would he save the club a considerable amount on the Semenyo transfer, but he would also align more closely with the club’s culture, which he has not fully embraced until his recent trip to Second City. Academy Scoop previously referred to Mantato as “one of the biggest talents at the club.” It may be time for United to unleash a player with such immense potential.
Published: 2025-12-25 20:40:00
source: www.footballfancast.com
