Fabrizio Romano: Everton Open Talks for PSV’s ‘Lethal’ Star Johan Bakayoko Amid other Premier League Club interest
Everton have reportedly stepped up their efforts in the summer transfer market by initiating contact over a potential deal for highly-rated Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko, according to renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The PSV Eindhoven star has attracted widespread interest across Europe, with Premier League and Bundesliga clubs all vying for his signature.
Romano has confirmed that Bakayoko is firmly on Everton’s radar, with the Merseyside club making contact with PSV to explore the possibility of bringing the exciting 22-year-old attacker to Goodison Park. The Dutch side are reportedly open to selling the player, given he is entering the final 12 months of his contract and could leave for free next summer if no agreement is reached.
Bakayoko has made a name for himself as one of the most dynamic and dangerous wingers in the Eredivisie. Operating predominantly on the right flank, he has impressed with his blistering pace, technical ability, and end product. His performances in the 2023–24 campaign were particularly eye-catching, contributing 14 goals and 14 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions — a return that underlines his attacking potency and creative flair.
Toffees Enter Race for In-Demand Talent
Everton’s move for Bakayoko is not without complications, as several other clubs have joined the race for his signature. Romano reports that at least five teams — including Bundesliga duo RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen, as well as Premier League outfits Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth — have also made enquiries to PSV.
“PSV Eindhoven are set to sell Johan Bakayoko as they’ve received five approaches for the winger,” Romano wrote. “RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen, Everton, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth have all called to open discussions. Request around €20 million, with add-ons included.”
With Everton manager David Moyes aiming to build a more competitive side following his return to the club, strengthening the flanks is seen as a top priority. The Toffees have already been active in the market, completing two signings: French striker Thierno Barry, who arrived from Villarreal in a deal worth £26.7 million, and Carlos Alcaraz, whose loan move from Southampton was made permanent for an undisclosed fee.
The departure of Jack Harrison — who returned to Leeds United after a loan spell — has left a gap in wide areas, and Bakayoko appears to be an ideal candidate to fill that void. Described as “lethal” by Breaking The Lines, the 18-cap Belgian international ticks many of the boxes Moyes is looking for: directness, confidence on the ball, and the ability to both score and assist regularly.
Bakayoko’s Premier League Decision Looms
Bakayoko came close to joining the Premier League last summer when Brentford tabled a club-record £34 million bid for his services. However, the winger turned down the move, explaining later that he didn’t want to join a “mid-table club” at that stage of his career — a statement that may cast some doubt over his willingness to sign for Everton, who finished in the lower half of the table last season.
Despite that, Everton will hope that the project being assembled under Moyes — coupled with the promise of regular first-team football and a starring role — can help convince Bakayoko to make the move to Goodison Park.
With PSV now under pressure to cash in and several clubs circling, the coming days could prove crucial. Everton may need to act decisively and present a compelling offer — both financially and in terms of career progression — to win the race for one of Europe’s most sought-after young wingers.