(Credit: Hasan Karim, Breaking Media)
Eddie Howe sees PSV winger Johan Bakayoko as a “very smart signing” for Newcastle United this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed what his sources have said about Newcastle’s pursuit of the Belgian international.
Newcastle have tried and failed with several big-money moves for right-wingers this summer, and turned their attention to West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus after Byran Mbeumo opted for a move to Man United.
Bakayoko has been on Howe’s transfer shortlist for some time and Newcastle had planned to pursue a deal for the Belgium star in January, but PSV’s price tag of £30–40million proved to be a hindrance.
However, sources have now told Football Insider that the right offer could tempt Bakayoko to make the move to St. James’ Park this summer, particularly as his contract at Philips Stadion enters its final year.
PSV pipped Ajax to the Eredivisie title by a point and will join Newcastle in the Champions League next season, but Football Insider sources have said Bakayoko is still tempted to play at the very highest level.
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Newcastle identify Bakayoko as ‘smart’ transfer alternative
Football Insider revealed in June 2024 that Liverpool saw Bakayoko as the long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah, but the Egyptian signing a new two-year deal opens the door for other clubs to sign him.
Speaking on the new Inside Track, O’Rourke said that Newcastle could still act on their long-standing interest in Bakayoko this summer, particularly given their failed efforts to sign other wingers so far.
“Bakayoko I’m sure would probably be interested in a move if it was the right offer”, he told Football Insider.
“He wants to be playing at the highest level, which Newcastle can offer to him with Champions League football.
“With his contract going into the final year, it could be a lot cheaper than potentially some of those other players, so he could be a very smart signing for Eddie Howe.”
Bakayoko a low-risk, high-reward transfer for Newcastle
Bakayoko’s 15 goal contributions last season pales in comparison to the likes of Mbeumo and comes in a league with a mixed track record of Premier League converts, but his future will still intrigue the Magpies.
Kudus only managed five goals and four assists in an ailing West Ham side last season yet will command a transfer fee north of £60m this summer, after a stellar first season following his switch from Ajax.
Newcastle could get an even better output from Bakayoko for a lower fee than Mbeumo or Kudus will command, and with money to spend and Champions League football on the horizon, Eddie Howe is well placed to get a “smart” signing over the line.
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