Liverpool is reportedly eyeing Johan Bakayoko as a potential addition to their squad for the upcoming summer transfer window. Belgian football insider Sacha Tavolieri recently disclosed on X (formerly known as Twitter) that the Reds have had their sights on the PSV Eindhoven star since March 2023.
Tavolieri’s tweet detailed that Bakayoko’s name has received endorsement from both Barry Hunter, Liverpool’s chief scout, and Arne Slot, who is set to take over as the team’s manager. The 21-year-old Belgian winger has had an outstanding season in the Dutch Eredivisie, making significant contributions with 28 goals across 48 matches in all competitions. His performance has evidently caught the attention of Liverpool’s recruitment team, indicating their serious interest in the young talent.
Bakayoko’s role at PSV has been predominantly as a right winger. His style of play, which involves frequently cutting into the opponents’ box from the right flank, has drawn comparisons to Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s current star winger. Given Salah’s critical role at Anfield, Bakayoko is being considered a potential long-term replacement. While Salah is expected to remain with Liverpool for at least another season, his contract is set to expire in 2025. Whether Salah stays beyond this period or not, Bakayoko could be a strategic signing for Liverpool, ensuring they have a successor ready to take over the right wing position.
At the age of 21, Bakayoko is at a stage in his career where a move to a top club like Liverpool could be highly appealing, especially with the prospect of becoming a primary option for the team in the future. The possibility of playing for a club that competes at the highest levels in European football, along with the opportunity to be groomed as Salah’s successor, could be significant factors in convincing Bakayoko to join Liverpool.
Moreover, with incoming manager Arne Slot and chief scout Barry Hunter both validating Bakayoko as a valuable addition, it underscores the strategic planning Liverpool is putting into their future squad development. The fact that Liverpool has been monitoring Bakayoko since early 2023 suggests a thorough evaluation process, reflecting the club’s commitment to securing top talent that aligns with their long-term goals.
