Bournemouth Complete Signing Of Rayan To Replace Semenyo
Bournemouth have finalised the signing of 19-year-old Brazilian winger Rayan, bringing the highly rated forward to the Premier League on a long-term contract.
The club confirmed the transfer from Vasco da Gama on Tuesday, with the deal reported to be worth around £30.6 million (€35 million) including add-on fees.
Rayan has signed a contract until 2031 and is expected to be part of Bournemouth’s plans in the second half of the 2025–26 season.
Rayan’s move comes shortly after Bournemouth sold winger Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City, leaving a gap in their attacking line.
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has said the club identified Rayan as a player with the potential to grow into a key role for the team.
Rayan made his professional debut for Vasco da Gama at just 16, becoming the youngest player in the club’s history to feature for the senior side.
He went on to develop into one of the most promising young talents in Brazilian football, attracting attention from clubs across Europe.
In the 2025 season, Rayan scored 20 goals in 57 appearances across all competitions for Vasco — an impressive return that helped bring him to the attention of scouts on both sides of the Atlantic.
His performances in the Brazilian Serie A contributed to a significant increase in his market value, reportedly rising to €25 million before his move to England.
Rayan is also a youth international for Brazil, having represented his country at U17 and U20 levels.
His combination of physical strength, pace and goal threat has led to comparisons with some of Brazil’s recent high-profile exports, and he was reportedly on the radar of a number of major European clubs before Bournemouth secured the deal.
Bournemouth have strengthened their squad in several areas this season, but the departure of Semenyo — who joined Manchester City for around £62.5 million — left a void in their forward line that needed to be filled.
The Cherries have taken a measured approach to recruitment, aiming to combine long-term potential with immediate impact.
Rayan is seen as part of that strategy. At 19, he arrives with room to develop further under the guidance of Bournemouth’s coaching staff.
His versatility as both a winger and an attacking forward gives Iraola options in how he uses him in different tactical setups.
The transfer also reflects Bournemouth’s willingness to invest significant funds in emerging talent.
The reported deal includes a release clause that could rise to €100 million after Rayan’s second season, underscoring the club’s belief in his future value and potential resale worth.
Rayan expressed his excitement after the move was confirmed, saying he was “very happy and honoured” to join a club that has a track record of developing young players and giving them opportunities to flourish.
He told club media that he hopes to “give the fans a lot of joy” and make a meaningful contribution to Bournemouth’s campaign.
Bournemouth’s president of football operations described the signing as one that reflects the club’s long-term planning.
He highlighted Rayan’s “consistency and maturity for his age” as key reasons behind the club’s pursuit of the Brazilian forward.
The arrival of Rayan boosts Bournemouth’s attacking options at a crucial point in the Premier League season.
The Cherries are currently positioned mid-table and aiming to build momentum as they look to secure a comfortable finish.
Adding a young, dynamic forward aligns with both their immediate needs and broader recruitment philosophy.
Rayan’s adaptability will be tested as he adjusts to the pace and physicality of English football.
Bournemouth’s coaching staff will likely manage his transition carefully, aiming to balance playing time with development.
His debut could come as soon as this weekend, with Bournemouth reporting that Rayan is expected to complete the final stages of his medical and begin training with his new team shortly.
Rayan’s transfer also highlights the ongoing trend of Premier League clubs identifying and investing in South American talent at younger ages.
As competition for emerging stars intensifies, clubs like Bournemouth have positioned themselves as stepping stones for players seeking to establish themselves in Europe’s top leagues.
For Vasco da Gama, the sale represents a record transfer, bringing in funds that could be reinvested into their own academy and squad.
For Bournemouth, it adds a young attacking option with potential to grow into a central role in the coming seasons.
