Liverpool have made PSV Eindhoven winger Johan Bakayoko a “top” transfer target ahead of the summer, according to Sky Germany journalist Patrik Berger.
The Reds have joined the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City, PSG and Borussia Dortmund in pursuing the Belgian international.
Fans on X are rather sceptical about signing Bakayoko, with many fearing that they could end up with another Cody Gakpo:
This boy is not good enough ooooo I have said this from the beginning again .I have watched more than 8 PSV this season from start to finish I don’t see anything special he does apart from running and dancing .
— Tarfaz (@Tarfaz7600) March 18, 2024
I’m scared of players from that league now🤣
— Shoty ひ (@Shoty_7) March 18, 2024
Been extremely mid this season, we need someone who can finish.
— Jeirno (@Jeirno_) March 19, 2024
He’s mid
Gakpo 2.0We don’t need a player like this
Nico Williams is better— PHARMO (@Adekoyaoluwaf13) March 18, 2024
Another Cody Gakpo 2.0, what we need is Rafael Leao.
— Emm (@Emm_1892) March 18, 2024
Liverpool should just stay off this guy he will end up being like doku if u watch his playing style he’s never serious 😡
— Moyınoluwa Davıd (@SpencyDavid) March 19, 2024
Bakayoko has a pretty steep asking price
It is believed that PSV have slapped a €50m (£43m) to €60m (£51m) valuation on the 20-year-old, which is an eye-watering figure for a player who has yet to prove himself at the top level.
However, due to Bakayoko’s current situation and the competition for his signature, it appears Liverpool would have to pay a premium to secure his services.
Liverpool may want him to replace Salah
Considering the cost of recruiting the Belgian, many supporters will be right to ask why the Merseyside club are pursuing him. There is one key reason the Reds are so keen on him: he’s a left-footed winger.
There are very few players currently plying their trade in top European leagues who could replicate what Mo Salah offers Liverpool, but Bakayoko is one of them. A replacement will have to be signed for the Egyptian in the near future; especially if he doesn’t sign a new contract.