Newcastle United could still complete a move for long-term target Johan Bakayoko in the summer transfer window, according to reports - though a deal for the PSV Eindhoven star would only get over the line if their move for Anthony Elanga doesn't end up being completed.
The Magpies' last notable permanent signing for their first-team, barring the obligation to land Lewis Hall from Chelsea last summer, was the capture of Tino Livramento from Southampton in the summer of 2023. With that in mind, they are keen to inject fresh blood into their ranks - and that could see them move for Bakayoko as an alternative to Elanga, who they still haven't agreed a fee for.
Report: Bakayoko 'An Option' for Newcastle if Elanga Deal Falls Through
The Magpies have a contingency plan in place in case of failure
Johan Bakayoko in action for PSV Eindhoven
The report by Football Insider states that Bakayoko remains an option for Newcastle - but only if their bid to sign Elanga breaks down.
Johan Bakayoko's Eredivisie statistics - PSV Eindhoven squad ranking
Stats
Appearances
Goals
Key Passes Per Game
Shots Per Game
Dribbles Per Game
Match rating
Jacob Murphy has been in the form of his life for the Magpies, contributing 23 goals and assists in just 41 games for the club last season - but Eddie Howe still wishes to upgrade in that department as he looks to take Newcastle to the next level.
Elanga is at the top of their wishlist, but Bakayoko represents a solid alternative if they can't agree a deal with Nottingham Forest for the Swedish star, having submitted a £55million offer for him earlier in the week despite the Reds' £60million price tag.
Newcastle are keen on Bakayoko as a result, and having entered the final four months of his PSV contract, a previous report by Football Insider states that Bakayoko would 'favour' a move to Tyneside this summer, which is a plus for Howe.
Newcastle had been planning for Elanga to become part of a trio of signings including Joao Pedro and Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, but with the former ending up at Chelsea, their plans have changed somewhat - and so the desperation for Elanga to get over the line sooner rather than later is now apparent.
Bakayoko, who has been labelled as 'lethal', scored 12 goals in all competitions last season, as well as registering three assists for PSV - and alongside becoming a regular Belgium international, his career at the age of just 22 is admirable - and Howe could take him to the next level.
Statistics courtesy of WhoScored. Correct as of 06-07-25.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe applauding Related
Alongside Elanga: Newcastle Want to Sign 'Lethal' Winger, He's Open to Joining
Newcastle United are eyeing a summer move to sign Johan Bakayoko this summer, and he'd be open to joining.
Sign up to The GIVEMESPORT Reportto get exclusive daily updates from Fabrizio Romano, Ben Jacobs, Dean Jones and Tom Bogert sent straight to your inbox.