Newcastle United’s name has once again been pulled into the conversation as talk around Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo grows louder. His form this season has put several Premier League clubs on high alert, especially now that it has been revealed he has a £65 million release clause that can be activated in the first two weeks of the upcoming season.
It is a significant fee, but not one that would scare off clubs looking for a powerful, direct, and consistent wide forward. Newcastle were linked with him earlier in the summer window, and with fresh reports emerging, the question is being asked again: could the Magpies make a move?
Semenyo has been one of the standout performers for Bournemouth this season, becoming a key figure with his pace, physicality, and ability to make an impact in the final third. With nine Premier League goal contributions already, he has shown he can be a difference-maker at this level.
His release clause has naturally attracted interest from top clubs such as Liverpool and Arsenal, and his quick rise has only made competition for his signature stronger. Newcastle were one of the clubs who kept a close eye on him months ago, but circumstances have changed since then.
During the summer, Newcastle decided to move for Anthony Elanga instead, hoping his speed and potential would give Eddie Howe another strong option out wide. However, the move has yet to pay off.
Elanga is still looking for his first goal or assist in 17 appearances across all competitions, and his slow start has tested the patience of fans, even though Howe continues to back him publicly. Newcastle’s wide areas are not without depth, with Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Jacob Murphy all capable of playing on either wing.
Still, there is an argument that the squad could use more explosiveness in the final third, especially with European commitments and a demanding Premier League season.
From a financial point of view, the £65m release clause is not beyond Newcastle’s reach. The club generated significant funds through the record sale of Alexander Isak, which strengthened the financial position and opened up room for future investment.
But while they can afford Semenyo, the timing of the clause creates a challenge. The fact that he can only be signed in the first two weeks of the season adds pressure and limits the planning window.
Clubs usually prefer to complete their business before competitive matches begin, and entering negotiations at such a strict moment could complicate matters for Newcastle, especially if other areas of the squad need attention.
Another factor working against Newcastle is that Semenyo’s stock has risen dramatically in a short period. When Newcastle were exploring their summer options, he was more attainable and less expensive, and competition from top-six clubs was not as intense.
Now, he has become a serious target for Premier League giants who can offer Champions League football and title-contending projects. As his performances continue to grab attention, it becomes harder for Newcastle to position themselves ahead of teams with bigger financial pull and more established status in the league.
There is also Semenyo’s personal preference to consider. Last year, he openly admitted he is an Arsenal fan. While that alone does not guarantee he would pick the Gunners, it does give Arsenal an advantage.
Semenyo spoke honestly about growing up watching the club and wanting to play for the biggest teams in Europe. His admiration for Arsenal does not interfere with his professionalism, but his comments hinted that playing for a side he supported all his life would be special for him, especially at a time when Arsenal are competing strongly at the top of the table.
So while Newcastle technically can activate the release clause, the reality is more complicated. The timing, competition, and the player’s own loyalties all combine to create hurdles that did not exist in the summer.
Newcastle have options on the flanks and a manager who believes in giving players time to settle. For now, Semenyo seems more likely to attract a bidding war among the traditional top-six clubs rather than land at St James’ Park. Newcastle’s interest may not be dead, but it certainly faces bigger challenges than before, and the window of opportunity they once had has likely narrowed.
