£17m bargain suddenly on offer for winger Newcastle wanted to sign in January

£17m bargain suddenly on offer for winger Newcastle wanted to sign in January

Newcastle could be handed the chance to sign a previous target on the cheap this summer.

For all the talk around Anthony Elanga, who may cost in excess of £50m from Nottingham Forest, another young right-winger with Champions League experience may be one to keep an eye on if reports in Europe are to be believed.

According to Dutch outlet Eindhovens Dagbal, PSV star Johan Bakayoko will be allowed to leave for just £17m this summer.

The Belgian international has endured a mixed season in the Eredivisie after sparkling over the 2023/24 campaign, it’s his contract situation that has opened the door to a cut-price exit.

Bakayoko has now entered the final 12 months of his contract with the Dutch giants and there are no signs of him extending, meaning PSV will cash in while they can.

A bargain Newcastle should pounce on?

The price drop not only presents a potential bargain and a third of the fee it could take to land Elanga, but feels like one to watch given our previous interest.

The Telegraph reported in December that he was a key January target based on extensive scouting and unanimous support of his signature from all members of the club’s recruitment team.

Has that stance changed six months on, even with the price drop? Only time will tell, with his poor end to the 2024/25 season and surprise lack of starts potentially playing a factor.

On the face of it, however, Bakayoko ticks several boxes. He’s 22, has Champions League experience, is powerful, skilful and can cut in on his left foot to great effect, delivering 26 goals and 17 assists over the past two seasons, along with 18 caps for his country.

Should we remain big fans of Bakayoko, a cut-price deal would also free up funds to spend big elsewhere, as a £60m move for Joao Pedro, top centre-back and bid for £40m-rated James Trafford won’t come cheap.

Bournemouth have been linked with a move for the winger, while Brentford have long-standing interest and may enter the race given Bryan Mbeumo is fully expected to depart.

 

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