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A recent source suggests Liverpool is considering making a bid for PSV player Johan Bakayoko in the upcoming January transfer window to fulfill their keen interest, especially after Brentford’s offer for the winger during the summer. The Premier League had shown substantial interest in Bakayoko, with Liverpool frequently mentioned as potential suitors.
Football Insider has confirmed that Liverpool is actively researching and evaluating Bakayoko, indicating genuine interest. The 20-year-old winger’s decision to stay with PSV was influenced by their advancement to the Champions League group stage. However, if PSV doesn’t progress further, Bakayoko might reconsider his options in January.
Bakayoko, nurtured in PSV’s system, has a contract until 2026 and has shown promise with 10 assists and 7 goals in 45 senior-level appearances. Apart from Liverpool, other Premier League clubs are also monitoring Bakayoko closely.
Brentford, having been eager to break their transfer record to acquire Bakayoko, remains a potential contender depending on PSV’s performance in Europe. Whether Liverpool’s pursuit of Bakayoko could affect Mohamed Salah’s future is uncertain, especially with interest from Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.
Liverpool previously resisted offers for Salah due to concerns about finding a suitable replacement promptly. However, new admirers in the Saudi Pro League might prompt a reevaluation of Liverpool’s stance. Acquiring Bakayoko might influence Liverpool’s strategy and possibly affect Salah’s position.
Liverpool’s interest in Bakayoko could lead to a second consecutive winter purchase from PSV, following Cody Gakpo’s arrival at Anfield earlier in 2023. Gakpo’s transfer set a club-record price for PSV, but Bakayoko’s potential value remains uncertain.
Interestingly, Gakpo and Bakayoko had a history of playing together at PSV, and their paths might cross again at Liverpool. Additionally, Liverpool appears to be a strong candidate to sign Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly.
