Johan Bakayoko’s agent drops transfer bombshell following Newcastle United come-and-get-me plea
Charlie Bennett
3 minutes
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PSV Eindhoven sensation Johan Bakayoko is going nowhere this month amid reported interest from Newcastle United.
Toon chiefs were understood to have been monitoring his situation at an arm’s length on their hunt for a right-winger. Bakayoko – who has 18 caps for Belgium is one of the Eredivisie’s brightest prospects.
It is no secret that Newcastle are chasing a right-sided attacker despite Jacob Murphy’s impressive recent form. Yankuba Minteh, who arrived as a youth player, is the only right-winger signed post-takeover but he has already been sold to Brighton.
The consensus among supporters is that signing a game-changer in that position could take the Magpies to the next level. With 18 months left on his contract, Newcastle remain in a strong position to strike a deal.
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Bakayoko has been ambiguous about his future when grilled by reporters – hinting at a possible move to a trophy-chasing club in the Champions League. United sit fifth in the Premier League and have an upcoming Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal.
“If I were to leave Eindhoven, it would only be to a club that plays for the prizes just like PSV,” he said when discussing his future,” he said in the summer. “Becoming a champion is what I want and (to) win the Champions League.
“I have the qualities for that. I’m ready for the top. But PSV is also a top club, especially if many players from last season stay. And it’s nice here.
“I think I’ve never radiated a moment that I play here reluctantly. The holiday was shortly after the European Championships, but it’s great to get back to PSV. Last season’s vibe is still there.”
However, his agent, Gerard Witters, has now insisted Bakayoko will stay in the Netherlands this month. That could open the door for a cut-price move later this year given his contract situation.
The winger will have 12 months remaining come July which may force the deal to land closer to Newcastle’s valuation. Toon chiefs reportedly value Bakayoko closer to £25million – almost half of PSV’s £45million price tag.
