Arsenal consider move for Semenyo and Kerkez from Bournemouth in €80m deal

As Arsenal continue their rise in the Premier League under Mikel Arteta, the club’s ambitions remain sky-high. From near-failure in recent title races to this current season brimming with potential, Arteta has carefully crafted a squad with depth and quality. However, as CaughtOffside reports, Arsenal are not resting on their laurels and are already exploring ways to strengthen the squad for the 2025/26 campaign.

“Sources told CaughtOffside that Arteta appreciates AFC Bournemouth duo Antoine Semenyo and Milos Kerkez, who are valued at around €80m by the Cherries.” Although Bournemouth are known for negotiating hard, the potential acquisition of these two players could improve Arsenal’s tactical options and provide essential first-team cover.

Semenyo and Kerkez: the depth the arsenal needs

Antoine Semenyo and Milos Kerkez could respond to two of Arsenal’s emerging needs. Semenyo, the lively winger, has started to turn heads with his energetic displays for Bournemouth this season. Despite being relatively new to the Premier League, Semenyo has shown a lot of promise, with three goals and an assist to his name. As Bukayo Saka’s backup, he would give Arteta another option on the flanks, reducing the workload on Saka, who has been a pillar in Arsenal’s attack.

Kerkez, meanwhile, is seen as a potential replacement for Oleksandr Zinchenko or Kieran Tierney, depending on Arsenal’s transfer decisions in 2025. Zinchenko’s technical ability and versatility have been advantages for the team, but his fitness has been a persistent concern. Tierney, a fan favorite, has also faced his share of injuries and if he is sold or sidelined, Arsenal will need a solid left-back option. Kerkez, who has received praise for his attacking play and defensive resilience, appears to fit Arteta’s mold for a full-back who can press high and contribute in possession.

The acquisition of Semenyo, however, may not be simple. According to Caught out of playTottenham manager Ange Postecoglou is another admirer of the 24-year-old. North London derbies have long extended beyond the field and, should Arsenal decide to sign Semenyo, Spurs could provide stiff competition for his signature. This interest underlines the potential that Semenyo possesses, with both clubs clearly viewing him as a valuable addition to their respective squads.

Arsenal’s current squad configuration relies heavily on Saka’s tireless work rate and adaptability, but the long season ahead means reinforcements are essential. By adding Semenyo, Arsenal would not only gain depth but also keep one of the league’s emerging talents out of the hands of their closest rivals.

Bournemouth’s €80m valuation for Semenyo and Kerkez is substantial. Arsenal are unlikely to reach that number, but a realistic compromise can still be reached. Arsenal’s priority lies in acquiring players who can contribute immediately and, more importantly, who fit into Arteta’s system. If Bournemouth remain firm on their price, Arsenal’s decision-makers will have to weigh the long-term benefits against the significant outlay.

The reported interest in these two players also suggests that Arsenal are planning for the future. Arteta and the club hierarchy are aware that achieving sustained success requires consistent squad improvement, especially if they are to compete in domestic and European competitions. These potential acquisitions are a sign that Arsenal are not just looking to the present, but also building a team capable of challenging at the highest level in the years to come.

Arteta’s Arsenal intend to maintain the momentum. Their squad-building strategy has seen a mix of experience and youth, and the pursuit of Semenyo and Kerkez fits perfectly into that spirit. While Arsenal may have to navigate negotiations with Bournemouth, adding players of this caliber would increase squad depth and mitigate the risk posed by injuries or a congested fixture schedule.

With Arteta in charge, the Gunners are determined to maintain their competitive edge. Signing Semenyo and Kerkez would reflect Arsenal’s wider ambition – not just winning the Premier League, but establishing a team that remains a formidable force in English football.

The pursuit of Semenyo and Kerkez signals a forward-thinking strategy. Arsenal fans have witnessed the club’s progress under Arteta, and the prospect of strengthening key areas on the pitch is encouraging. While €80 million may seem exorbitant, the club has invested heavily in recent windows and securing young, versatile players has proven beneficial.

Semenyo’s arrival could mean less pressure on Saka, allowing squad rotation without a noticeable drop in quality. With Kerkez, Arsenal fans would probably appreciate a strong, attacking left-back to continue the tradition of forward-thinking full-backs, much like Tierney and Zinchenko. Tottenham’s alleged interest in Semenyo adds an extra layer of intrigue, and Arsenal fans would love the prospect of overtaking their north London rivals with his signature.

For fans, a change between the two would reflect their determination to compete on all fronts. Regardless of whether Bournemouth’s assessment is met or not, the intention to strengthen the squad shows a club building for the future, driven by ambition and the desire to stay at the top.