Will Arsenal Target Jeremy Doku or Antoine Semenyo If Man City Faces FFP Relegation?

If Manchester City faces relegation due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) sanctions, could Arsenal swoop for players like Belgian winger Jeremy Doku or Ghana's Antoine Semenyo? Former Gunners player Gilles Grimandi expressed doubts about such moves, telling GOAL he isn’t convinced Arsenal would chase either of those two.

Arsenal’s Search for a Left-Sided Attacker

This past summer, Arsenal looked to strengthen their left-wing options. They brought in the lively Greek forward Christos Tzolis, while letting Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli leave. Rumors swirled around big names like Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, but he stayed put after signing a new deal at Santiago Bernabeu.

Bradley Barcola also attracted Arsenal’s attention. The French talent, fresh off back-to-back Champions League titles with Paris Saint-Germain, saw his price rise until Liverpool snapped him up for £123 million ($165 million).

Arsenal seemed hesitant to spend huge amounts on one player. They believe players like Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke can provide creativity and width without breaking the bank.

Possible Impact of Man City’s FFP Troubles

Should Manchester City suffer a serious points deduction leading to relegation, a wave of players might leave. This includes talents like Semenyo and Doku, both of whom have shown promise in the Premier League recently.

Grimandi’s Take on Potential Transfers

"I’m not convinced to be honest. To play the way they want to play, I don’t know," Grimandi said. "I watched the City games and Doku has fantastic ability, pace but Semenyo, I’m not convinced. I don’t think they will bring something special.[Khvicha] Kvaratskhelia, of course, will bring something special to Arsenal. I think we have quality in the young talent at Arsenal. Maybe it’s a chance for them to show their ability.It’s my point of view now. I cannot see Arsenal spending money but maybe they will become free, Doku or Semenyo."

Other Views on Doku’s Fit for Arsenal

On the other hand, ex-England international Gabriel Agbonlahor believes Doku would fit perfectly at Arsenal. Former midfielder Paul Scholes has predicted the Belgian might join the Emirates if Man City gets relegated.

Whether manager Mikel Arteta shares this view and is ready to battle rivals for these players remains uncertain. Arsenal is expected to keep looking for left-wing reinforcements in 2027.

Current Focus for Arsenal

For now, Arsenal’s attention is on upcoming matches. They face a crucial Champions League clash against Bayern Munich featuring Harry Kane on Wednesday, followed by a Premier League game hosting Everton on Saturday.

Upcoming Matches

• Champions League: Bayern Munich vs Arsenal, 21 Oct 2026, 22:00
• Premier League: Arsenal vs Everton, 24 Oct 2026, 14:30