Bayer Leverkusen leading the race for Johan Bakayoko

Bayer Leverkusen have jumped to the front of the queue to sign Johan Bakayoko from PSV Eindhoven, according to Sacha Tavolieri.

The Bundesliga side are currently in concrete talks with PSV to land Bakayoko, with negotiations reportedly centred around a €20 million fee.

Bakayoko, who has only one year on his current PSV deal, has already agreed personal terms on a five-year contract with Leverkusen, further strengthening Leverkusen’s quest to fend off competition for his signature.

Leverkusen’s interest in Bakayoko is driven by their need for attacking reinforcement after the departure of Florian Wirtz.

Bakayoko’s racked up 12 goals and three assists during the 2024/25 season, but it was his performances one year earlier that put the spotlight on him as he recorded 14 goals and as many assists in 2023/24 and was named Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year.

Beyond his pace and dribbling ability, Bakayoko is also known for his work rate and ability to track back and help in defensive situations.

While Premier League clubs like Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest and Everton have also shown interest, Leverkusen’s participation in the Champions League football gives them a competitive edge, making them the preferred destination for Bakayoko.

Bakayoko could be the second player to depart Eindhoven for Leverkusen this summer after Malik Tillman completed a €35 million move to the BayArena on Saturday.

Having previously signed Christian Kouame, Jarell Quansah and Mark Flekken, Leverkusen are wasting no time reinvesting their Wirtz windfall as they look to mount another title challenge next season under the tutelage of Erik ten Hag.