Liverpool could have a golden chance to secure a deadline-day move for PSV winger Johan Bakayoko, who is no longer expected to join Brentford. Bakayoko has emerged as one of the Eredivisie’s brightest talents and is thought to be attracting Premier League interest ahead of tonight’s 11pm cut-off point.
Brentford reportedly made an official bid for Bakayoko earlier this week with a view to getting a deal done before the summer window closes. However, the player has since informed the Bees that he will not be joining them, according to Fabrizio Romano.
It is said that Bakayoko has opted to remain at his current club in order to play Champions League football this season. Brentford remain eager to sign him in January but it seems likely that he will be staying at PSV until at least the new year.
Although his preference would seemingly be to remain in the Netherlands, the situation could represent an opportunity for Liverpool to pounce before the window slams shut. They would not be able to offer him Champions League football but the pull of the Reds could prove significant if they decide to firm up their interest over the coming hours.
Liverpool are said to have identified Bakayoko as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, who has been linked with a money-spinning move to Saudi Arabia. Jurgen Klopp confirmed on Friday that he is not expecting Salah to leave Anfield, but the Saudi transfer window is open for a week longer than its Premier League equivalent.
The Reds will need to act quickly if they wish to sign Bakayoko, though, while his stance on playing in the Champions League could make the deal a non-starter if he is not prepared to compromise. It remains to be seen how the situation will develop over the coming hours, with any successful move needing to be signed and sealed as a matter of urgency.
Bakayoko enjoyed a breakout season for PSV last year, scoring nine goals and grabbing six assists from 39 appearances in all competitions. He has also forced his way into the Belgium setup and currently has four caps to his name after impressing manager Domenico Tedesco.
The 20-year-old was rewarded with a new long-term deal at PSV back in February, keeping him on their books until at least the summer of 2026. This could mean that Liverpool would need to pay a premium fee to snap him up, especially with just hours remaining in the window, but only time will tell if anything comes to fruition before the clock runs down.
