Ex Spurs scout provides update on £50m transfer battle against Arsenal and Newcastle United

Former Tottenham Hotspur scout Mick Brown has teased that Premier League clubs are tracking the progress of AFC Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo 'very closely' ahead of a potential January swoop for the player.

The 24-year-old has turned heads this season on the south coast. Semenyo has four top flight goals to his name and has played a key part in his side's recent run of form, which has seen both Arsenal and Manchester City beaten at the Vitality Stadium.

Football Insider had previously reported that Bournemouth would look to price out any Premier League rivals should bids come in during the winter window now claims that may not be the case. Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and Newcastle United are all named as interested parties and the Cherries could look to use the player's rich vein of form to drive a bidding war that could surpass their £50 million valuation.

Brown, who worked for Manchester United and Aston Villa as well as Spurs, has now provided his insight on the transfer race from the perspective of a well-connected scout. He told the outlet: “Performances like that one against City will always inspire interest.

“He’s gone above the level I ever expected him to hit when I first watched him at Newport. Now, he’s proving he can be effective against the best sides in the country.

“I know there are a lot of clubs, including some of the top clubs, who are interested in him. I’m told they’ve been tracking his progress very closely.

“Bournemouth will be expecting offers for him in January and probably going into the next transfer window as well if he keeps up his form. He’s one of these players where he’s very strong and quick, but he’s got great feet and he’s now proving he’s dangerous in the box.

“He’s also got a determination about him which counts for a lot at this level. I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see one of the big Premier League clubs make a move for him in January, particularly the ones who have been looking at wingers.”

Semenyo arrived at Bournemouth from Bristol City in January 2023 on a £10 million deal and has seen his valuation more than quadruple since then. The player signed a new deal with the club this year, which would keep him at Bournemouth until 2029 without a transfer away from the side.