Against BVB and Leipzig: Bayer fights for Bakayoko's commitment

Bayer Leverkusen is trying to sign Johan Bakayoko from PSV Eindhoven and is fighting to secure the right winger, who has attracted numerous interest, including Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig.

Bayer 04 urgently needs reinforcements on the wings. While wingers weren't primarily in demand in Xabi Alonso's 3-4-3 formation for more than two and a half years, they are now highly valued under new coach Erik ten Hag, who favors a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3. The Dutchman prefers players who ideally play inversely in these positions, meaning they can be deployed as right-footers on the left and vice versa.

Monaco and BVB were recently considered favorites

Such dribbling-savvy players are rare in the Champions League participant's current squad. Therefore, a new attacker is expected, especially on the right flank, with Johan Bakayoko of PSV Eindhoven being targeted for the position, as kicker reported on Tuesday .

But the battle for the dangerous left-footer, who contributed nine goals and one assist for Eindhoven in the Eredivisie last season, is fierce. Several clubs are vying for the services of the striker, who is only under contract with the Dutch champions until 2026.

In addition to Nottingham Forest, and likely Premier League AFC Bournemouth and Ligue 1 side AS Monaco, three Bundesliga clubs are vying for Bakayoko: Bayer 04, Borussia Dortmund, and RB Leipzig are also showing concrete interest in the winger. A transfer fee in the region of €20 million is being discussed.

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The Belgian international (18 appearances/one goal) has not yet committed to any of the suitors. Recently, reports in the Netherlands suggested that AS Monaco and Borussia Dortmund were ahead in the race for Bakayoko. Bayer has now also entered the fray. The attacker is said to be most interested in a Champions League team. Monaco, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayer 04 Leipzig, which has no international presence at all, do not meet this criterion.

Leverkusen is fighting for Bakayoko's offer. Given the numerous prominent suitors, the outcome is considered uncertain. Champions League appearances and Erik ten Hag's playing style and system, into which the 22-year-old fits perfectly, serve as arguments in his favor. Whether these will be sufficient remains to be seen.