Bayer Leverkusen linked with attackers Johan Bakayoko and Justin Kluivert | OneFootball

Holland’s Voetbal International and England’s Talk Sport both have fresh news to report regarding Bayer Leverkusen transfer rumors. The 2023/24 Bundesliga champions are being linked with Johan Bakayoko and Justin Kluivert as part of their sorely needed summer restock in attack. Bakayoko could serve as a direct replacement for Jeremie Frimpong while Kluivert – in his new role as a ten – could help die Werkself absorb the loss of Florian Wirtz.

Bakayoko enters the final year of his contract with PSV Eindhoven. The Eredivisie champions reportedly seek a €20m transfer fee for the 22-year-old. This could constitute something of a steal as the 18-times-capped international currently maintains a €30m estimated market value, down from a peak of €45m in May 2024. Bakayoko still scored 12 goals and registered three assists last season.

The Kluivert links prove interesting as the son of Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert does have some Bundesliga experience. The current Bournemouth man spent the 2020/21 campaign on loan with the German Red Bulls from AS Roma.

Kluivert scored four goals in 27 appearances across all competitions for Julian Nagelsmann’s RB that season. Memorably, he netted what would prove the match-winner in a Champions League encounter against Manchester United.

Kluivert could potentially fancy a return to German football and a possible reunion with former Ajax head coach Erik ten Hag. The Talk Sport report nevertheless makes it clear that Kluivert’s Premier League club aren’t interested in selling him.

Kluivert has more than tripled his estimated market value since moving to England ahead of the 2023/24 season. In the last six months alone, the seven-times-capped international has pumped up his value from €22m to €35m.

GGFN | Peter Weis