BAYER LEVERKUSEN BATTLE BOURNEMOUTH AND NOTTINGHAM FOREST IN RACE TO SIGN €25M JOHAN BAKAYOKO AS ERIK TEN HAG TARGETS FLORIAN WIRTZ REPLACEMENT
Bayer Leverkusen have joined Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest in a competitive race to sign Johan Bakayoko, with the PSV Eindhoven winger attracting major interest across Europe this summer. The 21-year-old is available for around €25 million, and with Florian Wirtz’s high-profile departure now confirmed, Leverkusen see Bakayoko as a key piece in their attacking rebuild.
Leverkusen's New Era Begins
With Florian Wirtz completing a blockbuster move earlier this summer, Leverkusen are actively scouring the market for a creative winger or wide playmaker to step into a similar role. Manager Erik ten Hag, who took over following Xabi Alonso’s departure, is said to be a big admirer of Bakayoko’s profile:
Quick, two-footed winger
Strong 1v1 ability
Proven productivity in the Eredivisie and European competition
Leverkusen believe Bakayoko can evolve into a central figure in their new-look attacking setup.
Premier League Competition Heats Up
Despite Leverkusen’s strong pitch, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest are not backing down. Both clubs are offering guaranteed playing time and competitive financial packages to convince the Belgian star to make the Premier League leap.
Bournemouth see Bakayoko as a direct upgrade on their current wide options.
Forest want to bring in more flair to support their revamped attack under new management.
All three clubs are understood to have made contact with Bakayoko’s camp, with personal terms expected to be straightforward.
Price Tag & Deal Outlook
PSV are holding firm on a €25 million valuation, knowing they have no urgent need to sell.
The Dutch club may push for performance-related bonuses or a sell-on clause, which could complicate talks slightly.
Leverkusen are willing to meet the base fee but want to structure the deal smartly amid other summer priorities.
What’s Next?
The player is currently weighing his options, with all three clubs confident of their chances. A final decision is expected within the next week, as PSV want clarity ahead of their own squad planning.
Final Word
Johan Bakayoko’s next move is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the summer window. Bayer Leverkusen’s ambition, Premier League pressure, and the player's desire to play European football all hang in the balance. Whether he follows in Wirtz’s footsteps in Germany or lights up the English top flight, the €25 million man looks destined for a major leap in 2025.
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