Johan Bakayoko agrees contract extension with PSV amid Liverpool links
The prospect of reuniting with Cody Gakpo now seems distant for Liverpool target Johan Bakayoko as he agrees on a new deal with PSV Eindhoven. While some might view this as a setback for Liverpool, it’s crucial to understand the context and the club’s current priorities.
During the summer, Bakayoko saw himself linked with a potential transfer to Liverpool, as the Reds, among several other Premier League clubs, considered him a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah.
Bakayoko’s impressive performances and undeniable potential caught the eye of top clubs, making him a hot prospect on the transfer market.
However, recent reports from the Eindhovens Dagblad via ECHO indicate that Bakayoko and PSV have reached an agreement regarding a new contract, signalling his commitment to the Dutch club. This decision brings into question Liverpool’s pursuit of the forward, but it’s essential to keep the situation in perspective.
Is this a blow for the Reds?
Liverpool’s interest in Bakayoko was undoubtedly influenced by the need to plan for the future. Mohamed Salah, one of the club’s most prolific and consistent forwards, remains a vital part of the team. However, as Salah’s contract approaches its end, Liverpool must consider alternatives for the long term. Bakayoko was one such option, but it’s important to recognise that the need for an immediate Salah replacement is not a pressing concern for the club as Mo does not look like slowing down.
The pursuit of a like-for-like replacement for a player of Salah’s calibre is a complex and long-term endeavour, one that requires careful consideration and strategic planning. With all respect to Bakayoko, in case Salah leaves before the end of his current deal, we might have the finances to get on board a superstar signing instead of a youngster.
In the meantime, Liverpool’s focus may be directed elsewhere. One area of immediate concern is the need for an out-and-out defensive midfielder, a role that has been on the club’s radar for some time.
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The pursuit of a midfielder who can bolster the team’s defensive capabilities and provide support for the current midfield options remains a top priority for Liverpool.
