Positive talks: Man City close to completion of January signing after talks on Monday

"According to journalist Ben Jacobs, discussions held on Monday were positive, particularly around how payments related to the forward's release clause will be scheduled. Semenyo's contract at AFC Bournemouth includes a 65 million release clause, and while Man City could technically activate it in full, both clubs have been working to agree a payment structure that suits all parties. This would allow City to spread the cost across instalments while still meeting the conditions required for the player's exit."

"On the player's side, there are no remaining obstacles. Semenyo has already verbally agreed personal terms with the Premier League giants, signalling his clear preference to join Pep Guardiola's project. The 25-year-old is understood to be excited by the prospect of working under Guardiola and competing at the highest level domestically and in Europe, with Champions League football a major factor in his decision."

"From Bournemouth's perspective, there is a sense of inevitability surrounding the transfer, but also a desire to manage the timing carefully. The Cherries are still hopeful that Semenyo can make a farewell appearance in their upcoming fixture against Chelsea on Tuesday night. Allowing him to feature one last time would provide supporters with the chance to say goodbye to one of their standout performers, while also giving the club valuable continuity before his departure is officially confirmed."

Antoine Semenyo is poised to complete a transfer to Manchester City within 48 hours after positive talks yielded an agreement on scheduling payments tied to his £65 million release clause. Bournemouth and City have negotiated a payment structure allowing City to spread the cost across instalments while meeting the release conditions. Semenyo has verbally agreed personal terms and is eager to join Pep Guardiola, motivated by Champions League football and top-level competition. Bournemouth hopes to manage timing to allow a farewell appearance against Chelsea, balancing fan goodwill and squad continuity before the transfer is officially confirmed.

Read at www.caughtoffside.com