Romelu Lukaku’s favorite forward, a £43 million signing, may be Arne Slot’s first addition to Liverpool.
Recent Liverpool transfer speculation involves Johan Bakayoko, a forward from PSV Eindhoven, potentially moving to Anfield. As Liverpool prepares for a busy summer transfer window under their new head coach, Arne Slot, rumors suggest Bakayoko is among the players they’re considering. Despite Slot officially taking charge on June 1, speculation about potential signings, including Bakayoko, is already circulating. Reports indicate that Liverpool has scouted Bakayoko, with the possibility of acquiring him for less han PSV’s valuation of £43m (€50m).
Bakayoko, aged 21, is a prominent figure in Peter Bosz’s PSV team, primarily playing on the right wing. His position has led many to suggest he could potentially succeed Mohamed Salah at Liverpool.
Starting his career in Belgium with OH Leuven’s youth team, Bakayoko later joined Club Brugge before stints at Mechelen and Anderlecht. He moved to PSV in 2019 at just 16 years old, showcasing his talent early on in the club’s youth ranks under the guidance of Ruud van Nistelrooy.
In 2022, under former manager Roger Schmidt, Bakayoko earned a promotion to the first team and made his senior debut at 18. Since then, he has amassed 85 appearances for PSV, tallying 21 goals and 19 assists. Notably, he played alongside Cody Gakpo, who later joined Liverpool in January the previous year.
Bakayoko’s standout performance this season, contributing 14 goals and 14 assists across all competitions, was instrumental in PSV clinching the Eredivisie title. His impressive form has garnered interest from top European clubs, fueling speculation about a potential summer move.
Romelu Lukaku showered Bakayoko with praise during this season’s November international break, telling Alfredo Pedullo: “He’s grasping the value of numbers in the game.” “He is becoming more well-known due to his growing assist and goal totals. I told him how amazing it was. I think he plays well, and if he keeps fusing his scoring prowess with his artistic ability, he can develop into a really good player. “His potential is limitless. I genuinely believe he has what it takes to eventually overtake me.”