Slot approves Liverpool’s approach for Bakayoko
Liverpool are bracing for life after Mohamed Salah and have shortlisted a number of young forwards with the potential to replace the ageing and potentially outgoing Egyptian international.
Though his future for the upcoming season remains at Anfield, Salah has been the subject of interest from Saudi Arabia and has not ruled out a venture in the Middle East before hanging up his boots.
Johan Bakayoko is the latest addition to Liverpool’s shortlist of options to replace him, according to The Mirror, with the Belgium winger’s possible signing already receiving Arne Slot’s stamp of approval.
The manager knows Bakayoko very well having rivalled his PSV Eindhoven side to the Eredivisie last season, in which the forward struck 12 goals and provided nine assists in 2023/24.
He turned down interest from Burnley and Brentford last summer to focus on Euro 2024 preparations with PSV and kept his cards close to his chest regarding his future in an interview some time ago.
He said:
“The only thing I can say is that next year I will be on a football pitch somewhere.”
Bakayoko’s time at Euro 2024 could be especially pivotal in deciding whether Liverpool make a move for him or not during the transfer window.
He has also earned interest from Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig from the Bundesliga. PSV’s stance on his future is not known yet but the player may find it difficult to turn down a switch to a bigger side.
While Liverpool would be tempted by the prospect of signing Bakayoko, the Reds would be better off pursuing a more experienced option with Federico Chiesa being a good example at that.
Bakayoko has just had one noteworthy season so far, which also was not in one of Europe’s best five leagues. Having said that, he could still be one for the future if he moves to Germany and develops well over there.
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It remains to be seen how much Liverpool’s budget is for a forward’s signing but they will certainly be expected to spend on the higher side if the incoming option is an eventual replacement for Salah.
