Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara has called on returning sporting director Fabio Paratici to make Antoine Semenyo his first marquee signing of the winter window — describing the Bournemouth forward as “top class.”
Tottenham confirmed Paratici’s reappointment on Wednesday after his 30-month FIFA ban ended this summer. The Italian’s first spell in North London yielded several success stories, including Cristian Romero, Dejan Kulusevski, Pedro Porro, Pape Matar Sarr and Destiny Udogie — and O’Hara believes another smart attacking addition could take Spurs to the next level.
According to Football Place sources, Tottenham remain long-term admirers of Semenyo, though a January move looks unlikely. They face strong competition from Manchester United, Liverpool, and Atletico Madrid, all tracking the Ghanaian international closely.
O’Hara: “Semenyo is the player Tottenham need to buy”
Asked where Spurs should strengthen first, O’Hara was emphatic.
“Semenyo. Go and buy Semenyo. That’s it. He’s fantastic. If you go and sign us a Semenyo, I think Tottenham are not far off being a really, really good side. That’s a player I want at Tottenham. Semenyo is top class.” — Jamie O’Hara, via Sky Sports
The former Spurs man added that signing Semenyo would allow Xavi Simons — who has been operating on the left flank — to move back into his natural central position. O’Hara believes that tactical tweak could make Thomas Frank’s side more balanced and potent in attack.
Paratici’s return and O’Hara’s verdict on Pape Matar Sarr
Paratici’s return to Tottenham has been greeted with optimism inside the club. His recruitment record during his first stint helped rebuild the squad’s spine — particularly with the emergence of Sarr, who O’Hara admitted he initially doubted.
“At the start, I wasn’t sure if Sarr was good enough. He was a bit rash, but he was young. This season, he’s shown that he’s a top player — his energy in midfield, his bite, the way he gets up and down. He’s a massive hit.” — Jamie O’Hara
Sarr’s rise to prominence under Frank has mirrored Tottenham’s evolution into a high-intensity, front-foot side. With Paratici now back in the fold, the expectation is that further smart, data-driven additions will continue that progression.
| Stat (2025/26) | Antoine Semenyo |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 8 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Dribbles Completed per 90 | 3.1 |
source: sofascore match data – 17 October 2025
Those numbers highlight why Semenyo’s explosive pace and directness have caught the eye of top Premier League clubs. His ability to stretch defences and carry the ball from deep fits neatly with Frank’s attacking style.
Analyst Verdict — by John William, FootballPlace
In my view, O’Hara’s call for Tottenham to target Semenyo makes real sense. Spurs still lack a natural wide forward who can beat defenders one-on-one and press aggressively off the ball — traits Semenyo delivers in abundance. We believe he could play a similar role to Son Heung-min’s early years, providing depth and competition across the front line.
Paratici’s return also signals continuity in Tottenham’s recruitment identity. With a balanced mix of young talent and experience, a signing like Semenyo could push them from contenders to consistent top-four finishers.
Key Insights
- Jamie O’Hara urges Fabio Paratici to sign Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo.
- Spurs face competition from Man United, Liverpool, and Atletico Madrid.
- Thomas Frank also a long-time admirer of Semenyo’s talent.
- Paratici’s return expected to spark renewed transfer activity.
- O’Hara praises Pape Matar Sarr as one of Paratici’s best signings.
What’s Next
Tottenham return to Premier League action this weekend against Aston Villa, and attention is already turning to potential January reinforcements. Paratici is expected to assess attacking options before finalising targets for the new year.
Semenyo’s form at Bournemouth will be closely monitored in the coming weeks, but O’Hara’s endorsement has already stirred fan debate over whether he could be Spurs’ next statement signing.
👉 Should Tottenham make Antoine Semenyo their top January transfer priority?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 17 Oct 2025 12:27
His numbers are insane! Would be a starter for any PL team
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