Johan Bakayoko on Liverpool’s Transfer Radar: What You Need to Know

Reports indicate that Liverpool are interested in signing Johan Bakayoko from PSV Eindhoven in the summer. The 21-year-old Belgian has been impressive with his goal-scoring abilities, speed, and dribbling, making him a target for various top-tier European clubs. After the Reds saw what Bakayoko could do, they felt that the young player could add depth to their attack, especially with Salah’s contract due to expire soon. Let’s get into the details of the latest news on this transfer.

Who Is Johan Bakayoko?

Both for PSV and the Belgian national team, Johan Bakayoko is a right winger and his primary position is playing as a right winger. He is 1.79 meters tall (approx 5 feet 10 inches) and has kit number eleven. This season, he has had 31 total appearances and has scored 10 goals and assisted 3 times in international competitions, notably featuring in the UEFA Champions League. He can primarily be found using his left foot to cut inside to get open and create chances.

Originally, Bakayoko started his career playing in the youth league in Belgium until he signed with the PSV academy in 2019. He has now established himself as one of the most promising young players in Europe. Scouts admire his boldness when dribbling as well as handling pressure during games.

Why Liverpool Wants Him

Liverpool’s interest in Bakayoko ties closely to Salah’s uncertain future. The Egyptian star’s contract ends in June 2025, and talks about a renewal have stalled. If Salah leaves, the Reds need a long-term replacement. Bakayoko’s style is fast, direct, and comfortable on the right wing, making him a natural fit for Liverpool’s system.

New manager Arne Slot, who joined from Feyenoord, has already approved the move alongside chief scout Barry Hunter. Bakayoko’s transfer fee is estimated at €50–60 million (£43–50 million), which Liverpool could afford given their history of investing in young talent like Cody Gakpo.

Competition From Arsenal and Others

Liverpool isn’t alone in the race. Arsenal and Newcastle United are also keen on Bakayoko, with the Gunners viewing him as a backup for Bukayo Saka. Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig, known for developing young players, are monitoring him too.

Bakayoko has made his priorities clear: he wants to play in the Premier League and has turned down big-money offers from Saudi Arabia to stay in Europe. His contract with PSV runs until 2026, but the Dutch club expects to sell him this summer to avoid losing value later.

How He Fits Into Liverpool’s Plans

Bakayoko’s skills align with Liverpool’s high-energy, attacking style. His ability to cut inside from the right similar to Salah, would give the Reds a familiar threat. Analysts also highlight his “data-friendly” playing style, meaning his stats for dribbles, shots, and key passes meet top-club standards.

However, replacing Salah won’t be easy. The Egyptian has been a legend at Anfield, scoring over 200 goals since 2017. Bakayoko is still unproven in top leagues, but PSV insiders say he’s ready for the next step. Rik Elfrink, a journalist covering PSV, compared him to Gakpo, noting both players’ maturity and goal-scoring instincts.

What’s Next?

Liverpool will likely make a formal bid after the season ends. If Salah stays, Bakayoko could still join as a rotational option, easing the workload for stars like Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez. For now, the Belgian remains focused on PSV, where he’s helping chase another Eredivisie title.

Fans can expect twists in this saga. Will Arsenal outbid Liverpool? Can Dortmund lure him to Germany? One thing’s certain: Johan Bakayoko’s transfer will be one of the summer’s biggest stories.