Report: Liverpool “Interested” in Highly-Rated €50 Million Attacker | OneFootball

Johan Bakayoko: Liverpool’s Potential Summer Steal

Recent rumblings from credible sources hint at PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko moving closer to an Anfield switch this summer. The buzz is that Bakayoko’s “outstanding” performance has caught the eyes of Liverpool’s top scouts. Many have cited Rik Elfrink’s tweet, saying, “Liverpool is indeed interested, and sources around him already see it happening sooner rather than later.” A scout was present at the recent 5-1 PSV victory too. Liverpool, renowned for strategic signings, seems set on enhancing their attacking options with Bakayoko’s youthful vigour.

Looking at the Key Stats

At just 21, Johan Bakayoko has already made a significant impact in the Eredivisie and on the European stage with PSV Eindhoven. Standing 1.79 meters tall, this Belgian international, with roots in Côte d’Ivoire, has consistently performed as a right winger. During the 2023-24 season, Bakayoko made 48 appearances across all competitions, netting 14 goals and assisting another 14. His international credentials are just as impressive, with recent debuts and contributions at various levels for Belgium, culminating in his senior team debut in March 2024 where he scored in his first game.

Photo: IMAGO

Compare Him To

A harsh one, but who’s the only left footed right winger we have. Liverpool’s own Mohamed Salah isn’t the most suitable benchmark to gauge Bakayoko’s potential impact at Liverpool, but it’s worth a look. While Salah’s goals per 90 minutes stand at 0.99 compared to Bakayoko’s 0.60, Bakayoko shows promising underlying metrics. His progressive carries of 7.05 per 90 minutes is in the very top percentile for attackers in Europe and that maybe something Liverpool are focusing on. Salah leads with touches in the box, indicating his higher engagement in goal-critical areas, something Bakayoko can aspire to match with Liverpool’s attacking playstyle. It’s unfair but is what it is.

Likelihood and Fee

Bakayoko is currently valued at €40 million by Transfermarkt, a significant figure that reflects his rising star status and versatility on the field. Suggestions are PSV want €50 million but with a contract at PSV running until June 30, 2026, any potential suitor, including Liverpool, must negotiate a fee that respects his growing reputation and performance. The expected transfer fee, which should be lower than that headline figure, won’t put Liverpool off but it won’t see them jumping. You can hear the cries of Eredivisie tax from all angles and whilst Liverpool may well be watching Bakayoko and have him on a list, he’s unlikely to be top. One to keep an eye on to kick off transfer season, but I wouldn’t save up for the shirt letters just yet.