Newcastle United might consider completing a transfer in January for PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko, with the dynamic Belgian winger considered a perfect candidate to address the Magpies’ right-wing needs according to Angus Sinclair of Football Fancast.
Bakayoko’s impressive performances in the Eredivisie and Champions League have put him firmly on the radar and could be one of Newcastle’s targets as they try to fix their wing problems ahead of the second half of the season.
The 21-year-old has emerged as one of Dutch football’s brightest talents of late, tallying 14 goals and 14 assists last season while helping PSV secure the Eredivisie title.
Sinclair noted his potential and impressive dribbling, progressive carries, and creative output as the main attributes making him look ready to step into the Premier League without much trouble adapting to the best league in the world.
PSV, however, is expected to demand a fee in the region of €60m (£51m), making him a rather expensive option if NUFC wants to enter a bidding war for his services, let alone in the always-tight January transfer window.
Newcastle’s interest in Bakayoko could be boosted by Miguel Almiron’s exit amid ongoing struggles and a definitive lack of playing time under Eddie Howe this season.
The Paraguay international has played just 103 Premier League minutes across five appearances, way below the production he has given the Magpies in recent seasons. Reports suggest Almiron could be sold for less than £10m in January, allowing the club to recoup funds while paving the way for reinforcements even if they don’t get a massive amount of money in return.
Almiron’s departure would free up space for Bakayoko on the right wing while freeing Anthony Gordon from getting deployed on his less-favorite side. Gordon has been inconsistent on the right and he’s definitely much better on either the left wing on up front, though a healthy Alexander Isak will always be the leading option to man the striker role.