Goodison Park remains a hive of activity in the transfer market. Following the significant investment in young striker Thierno Barry from Villarreal, costing a reported £27 million, it appears Everton`s focus for attacking reinforcement is now shifting to the flanks.
According to transfer market specialist Fabrizio Romano, the Merseyside club is among several teams to have made enquiries regarding PSV Eindhoven`s promising winger, Johan Bakayoko. The interest suggests a clear intent to build a dynamic, youthful forward line under David Moyes and the new ownership group.
Interest Solidifies for £17.3m Winger
Johan Bakayoko, a 22-year-old Belgian international, has reportedly become a key target. Romano indicates that Everton has “called” PSV to register their interest. Crucially, PSV are understood to be “set to sell” the player this summer, making a transfer a tangible possibility. The reported valuation circulating is around £17.3 million, which in the current market could represent a potentially shrewd piece of business for a player of his profile and age.
Bakayoko`s record in the Netherlands highlights his capabilities. He has contributed a combined 33 goals and 22 assists across 131 appearances for PSV, demonstrating a consistent output of both scoring and creating opportunities. His performances have earned him praise, with football talent scout Jacek Kulig previously describing him as a “fantastic” player.
Ballon d`Or Aspirations at £17 Million?
Adding an extra layer of intrigue – and perhaps a touch of audacious charm – is Bakayoko`s outspoken ambition. In a rather bold statement for a player currently valued at £17 million, he has publicly declared his aim to be “close to winning the Ballon d’Or” within the next five years. One must appreciate the confidence, even if the path from PSV to football`s absolute pinnacle via potentially battling relegation scraps in the Premier League seems… optimistic. However, such self-belief could be exactly the kind of mentality a club like Everton needs.
Strategically, a move for Bakayoko makes sense. As a right-sided winger with the ability to cut inside on his left foot, he could provide balance and a direct threat on the opposite flank to any existing or potential wide players. Integrating him alongside the newly arrived striker Barry could form a fresh and exciting attacking unit for Everton, offering a blend of pace, skill, and finishing ability.
As the transfer window unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Everton can turn this reported interest into a concrete deal. Securing a player of Bakayoko`s reported calibre, potential, and, yes, undeniable ambition for around the £17 million mark could be a significant coup as the club seeks to strengthen its squad for the challenges ahead.
