Liverpool and Tottenham are keen on signing Johan Bakayoko, with either set of managers eager to bring a winger on board in January.
According to Rudy Galetti, Johan Bakayoko could have been approached by Liverpool and Tottenham in the winter window. The emergence of the Belgian winger at PSV Eindhoven has seen the Premier League duo ponder about making an effort to bring him early when his price might be relatively low.
Johan Bakayoko’s future at PSV Eindhoven
Johan Bakayoko has captured the imagination of many managers with his electric displays on the PSV Eindhoven wing. The rising star of Belgian football hasn’t produced overly attractive numbers, but his stats indicate consistent productivity from the right wing. He has 17 goal contributions this season.
Three goals and eight assists have made him an important part of Peter Bosz’s side, which has remained unbeaten in Eredivisie this season and has lost just once in all competitions. Bakayoko has played a significant role in that rise, and hence, PSV will not want to lose him midway through the season.
Their Champions League campaign might help the winger see the importance of remaining at the club at least until the summer. He could have further opportunities to cement his name as a top-quality talent, with games against Borussia Dortmund on the horizon after the winter window.
Yet, the interest from big Premier League clubs could entice him to make the move, similar to Cody Gakpo, who left for Liverpool despite having a fantastic season with PSV last time out.
Tottenham and Liverpool keen on Bakayoko
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp reportedly wants Bakayoko, as earlier reports in the summer suggested the German viewed the Belgian as a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah. The Reds boss will have to rethink his attacking options at some stage and might see the PSV star in his plans.
Liverpool have good relations with PSV following their deal for Gakpo last January. Hence, the two clubs can talk, but with the Dutch side still in the Champions League, any move will appear more complex than it did last year. Either way, if Bakayoko becomes available, Liverpool would like to sign the winger in January.
Similarly, Tottenham are also looking for a new winger and have sights on a few options. An earlier report suggested Spurs might find it difficult to sign him as PSV would demand big money for the 20-year-old attacker, which could also trouble Liverpool in their efforts.
Tottenham have other priorities, like signing a new defender in January. Only if they have funds left after bringing in a centre-back would they venture for a new winger. Hence, while the two clubs are keen on the 20-year-old attacker, Liverpool might have a slight upper hand in the chase.
