Arsenal hold talks with Belgian winger in 60 million deal

PSV attacker Johan Bakayoko and Arsenal have discussed a possible summer deal for the €55–60 million rated Belgian international. According to sources who are closely familiar with Bakayoko, Liverpool and Chelsea also have thoughts about signing the 21-year-old, although their interest may depend on player exits. The Gunners are eager to sign the youngster.

Arsenal appears to have the most advanced interest in Bakayoko at the moment, with Mikel Arteta spearheading their pursuit. Chelsea may become involved if they decide to trade Raheem Sterling during the summer, as the England international continues to draw attention from Saudi Pro League teams.

Liverpool, on the other hand, likes Bakayoko too but isn't in a hurry to add someone in that position. A transfer there will probably rely on if the Reds are able to hold onto Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz. Bakayoko is a target for Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and RB Leipzig, but Chelsea, Liverpool, and these other teams have not yet held negotiations with him.

According to reports, Bakayoko is considering leaving PSV during the summer. However, he will prioritize getting regular playing time with his next team, so it's unclear where he thinks he has the best opportunity of doing so.

Arsenal want Bakayoko as back-up to Bukayo Saka

Although it is known that Arsenal's primary goal is to have Bakayoko alternate with Bukayo Saka, giving the England international extra time off after having played so much football in recent years, Bakayoko may not be persuaded by such an insignificant role. Therefore, the personal terms might not be agreed between the two parties for this reason.

This acquisition, however, is obviously not going to be cheap, as PSV is expected to want as much as €55–60 million for its promising young striker, whose worth will only increase over the next few years. There's also a chance Arsenal will enter the competition to recruit Nico Williams, according to a number of stories that surfaced yesterday.