AFC Bournemouth’s search for a replacement for Antoine Semenyo has led them to German-Ghanaian winger Jamie Leweling, but their opening offer has been turned down.
The Cherries were reportedly willing to pay €40 million (£34.7m) for the VfB Stuttgart attacker, only for the Bundesliga club to reject the proposal.
Leweling has been identified as the ideal successor to Semenyo, who completed a blockbuster move to Manchester City in a deal believed to be worth £65 million.
The 24-year-old has impressed this season with Stuttgart, making 24 appearances across competitions, scoring one goal and providing five assists.
Bournemouth are understood to be pushing ahead with negotiations despite the initial setback.
Leweling is said to be open to a Premier League switch, although his contract in Germany runs until 2029.
Semenyo’s exit, sealed with a five-and-a-half-year contract at City lasting until 2031, leaves a major attacking void at the Vitality Stadium.
