PSV Eindhoven forward Johan Bakayoko celebrates scoring the 4-1 goal during the match between Utrecht and PSV
PSV Eindhoven forward Johan Bakayoko celebrates scoring the 4-1 goal during the match between Utrecht and PSV
Any European clubs attempting to lure exciting talent, Johan Bakayoko, away from PSV this January face a tough task as Newcastle continue to keep tabs on the right-winger. Tuesday saw the Telegraph report Eddie Howe's side are tracking the 21-year-old as the manager seeks to bolster his squad in the winter market.
Bakayoko attracting interest from European sides is nothing new, with Newcastle being mentioned with regards to a potential transfer for the best part of a year. Meanwhile, Manchester United, Napoli and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked with the youngster, along with Brentford who agreed a £40m package with PSV in the summer of 2023 before the player decided to stay in the Netherlands.
That was a decision that proved fruitful as Bakayoko played a major part in his side winning the Eredivisie title at a canter under Peter Bosz; a manager who helped improve the player's all round game in the process. Bakayoko featured 48 times in all competitions last term, chipping in with 28 goal contributions.
So far this season the wide man has helped himself to six goals and three assists in 20 competitive outings and, as such, PSV are reluctant to part ways. The Dutch side blocked a January exit at the start of 2024 as they sought to cement their runaway lead at the top of the table.
This time around PSV find themselves in a similar position, enjoying a seven-point advantage at the summit. In recent weeks, the club have sent a warning to any potential transfer suitors, briefing local media that any 'wealthy' clubs hoping to sign to sign their players will have to go 'all out' to convince them to part ways with their prized assets, while paying 'considerably above market value' in doing so.
This is something Newcastle are keen to avoid given their ongoing fight with profit and sustainability rules [PSR]. The Magpies have made no secret of their need to sell next month should fresh faces arrive.
Newcastle have not strengthened Howe's first-team since the summer of 2023 and recent form has amplified calls for a statement signing when the winter trading period begins. Sporting director Paul Mitchell and Howe have started assessing targets for January and there is hope at least one deal can be struck, with some potential exits to balance the books.
As for Bakayoko - the Belgian may prove a cheaper alternative to the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Antoine Semenyo who have caught the eye with impressive Premier League performances.