Liverpool may have to see off a challenge from RB Leipzig to land PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko, according to journalist Sacha Tavolieri.

Writing on his X account, Tavolieri said that the winger is still on the Reds’ “shortlist” but Leipzig are now also weighing up a move for the 21-year-old.

It is believed that the Bundesliga club have identified Bakayoko as a potential replacement for Dani Olmo.

Barcelona are currently locked in talks with Leipzig to sign the Spanish international for €60m (£51m), but there is still some disagreement over the payment structure.

Bakayoko’s form for PSV has attracted the attention of scouts

The Belgian had a great season in the Netherlands where he helped his club win the Eredivisie title. He racked up 14 goals and contributed 14 assists in 48 appearances.

Both Liverpool and Arsenal have been linked with Bakayoko in the Dutch press. The Gunners were said to be targeting the forward as potential competition for Bukayo Saka.

However, it looks as though Mikel Arteta’s side have switched their attention to Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane, leaving the Reds and Leipzig to fight it out over Bakayoko.

PSV’s high price tag may give Liverpool the edge

It has been reported that the Dutch champions want to break their record for a transfer fee received if they do choose to offload Bakayoko during the current transfer window.

The most that PSV have been paid for a player is actually €50m, which the Reds shelled out for Cody Gakpo in January last year. It means any bid for Bakayoko would probably have to be above this amount.

Leipzig may well baulk at such an asking price, so that could yet hand the advantage to Liverpool in the race for the Belgian international’s signature.

Find out who is in Liverpool’s first-team squad for 2024/2025 season here