Eddie Howe is a fan of Newcastle target Johan Bakayoko (Image: Getty)
has reportedly given his green light on the player who could be ‘s statement signing in January.
Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) will require the Magpies to spend and sell wisely this winter, but senior figures at St James’ Park are keen to reward Howe with new additions. And PSV Eindhoven winger Johan Bakayoko is a player who has been discussed at length behind the scenes.
According to , the 21-year-old is liked by all of ‘s recruitment committee, which includes Howe. They are all understood to feel as though Bakayoko would be a savvy recruit to strengthen their options on the right.
Anthony Gordon has nailed down the left-wing starting berth but there remains a spot up for grabs on the opposite flank. Miguel Almiron has fallen down the pecking order in that department and could be on the move in January if ‘s is met.
Harvey Barnes is better suited to playing on the left, and there is a feeling that Jacob Murphy could be improved upon if the Toon are to take their game to the next level.
Although Howe, sporting director Paul Mitchell and other big hitters in the transfers department are unanimous in liking Bakayoko, they are reportedly fearful that PSV may be completely closed to the idea of a mid-season sale.
Johan Bakayoko’s PSV are powering towards the Dutch league title (Image: Getty)
Belgian international Bakayoko is a key player for the runaway Eredivisie leaders, scoring five goals and notching one assist in 14 league matches this term. Last campaign he contributed to 21 goals in 33 games, and he already boasts a wealth of experience for his age.
But Bakayoko is not the only attacker admired by the hierarchy. Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo have also been ”, according to reports, and they are both enjoying superb individual seasons.
However, while there is a possibility that Bakayoko could be affordable if the right sales are made on Tyneside, chiefs are believed to be resigned to the fact that Mbeumo and Semenyo – who would both cost – are out of their price range.
Almiron is not ‘s only saleable asset in the upcoming transfer window, with Kieran Trippier reportedly ‘open’ to pursuing a new opportunity. Meanwhile star midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who had a £100m release clause this summer, has been linked with .