Premier League giants Arsenal and Liverpool have faced a potential setback in their search for attacking reinforcements in the January transfer window as PSV Eindhoven have slapped a strict ‘not for sale’ tag on highly-rated winger Johan Bakayoko, who has emerged as a target for the Gunners and the Reds.
The report adds that PSV’s stance is so strong about the £40 million-rated winger that they are unwilling to accept any offer, regardless of the amount offered from potential suitors. The Dutch side are eager to fend off interest from Arsenal and Liverpool at any cost, with Newcastle United also monitoring Bakayoko’s situation.
Speaking to Speaking to The Star, Bakayoko’s agent, Gerard Witters said, “Bakayoko will not leave PSV this season, regardless of the amount.”
The interest the player has earned from top clubs across Europe is due to his performances this season. He has made 21 appearances for PSV, scoring six goals and providing three assists as well. He has had goal contributions against the likes of Juventus and Girona in the Champions League and has shown great potential for the future, which has put him on top clubs’ radars.
When could Johan Bakayoko actually leave PSV?
The 21-year-old Belgian came through the youth ranks at multiple clubs, including Club Brugge, Mechelen and Anderlecht in his native Belgium. He moved to PSV in 2019 and was promoted to Jong PSV the following year, where he made a splash with his numbers. Bakayoko made 57 appearances for the U21s, scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists as well.
He soon earned a promotion to the first team in 2022, where he has made 106 appearances since, scoring 27 goals and assisting 22 as well. Such is his promise at a young age that he has also made 18 appearances for the Belgian national team, scoring one goal and providing two assists.
MUST READ: Arsenal could look at ex-Real Madrid man to bolster right-wing
However, with 18 months remaining on his current deal and PSV making their stance amply clear, it is hard to see him depart from the club regardless of the timing, or the size of the offer. One of the main reasons the Dutch club have blocked moves is to possibly prepare a new contract with improved terms for the player with hopes of retaining his services beyond June 2026.
