Newcastle United will now turn to 15G/A Belgian Star if they fail to sign Elanga
Newcastle United have set their sights on Johan Bakayoko as a contingency plan in case their pursuit of Anthony Elanga fails to materialize this summer.
The club’s need for a dynamic wide attacker has grown urgent, and with negotiations for Elanga proving difficult, attention has shifted toward the 22-year-old Belgian international currently playing for PSV Eindhoven.
Bakayoko’s profile fits the mold of what Newcastle are looking for in the transfer market. Young, skillful, and already experienced at both domestic and international levels, he has been on the radar of Premier League clubs for some time.
With Newcastle particularly focused on strengthening their attacking flanks following Miguel Almirón’s departure to Atlanta United, Bakayoko now appears to be a realistic and potentially valuable option.
Since breaking into PSV’s senior squad, Bakayoko has steadily developed into one of the most promising talents in the Eredivisie.
Originally from Overijse in Belgium, he moved to the Netherlands to join PSV’s youth system in 2019. Over the years, his technical flair, pace, and ability to stretch defenses have made him a key figure in their attacking setup.
Although his 2024/25 campaign was not his most prolific — scoring 12 goals and assisting three times in 47 appearances — his overall contributions and potential remain unquestioned.
He remains a young player with clear upward trajectory and the kind of raw attacking instinct Newcastle are eager to nurture.
The timing could also work in Newcastle’s favor. Bakayoko has entered the final year of his contract with PSV, and renewal talks have not progressed positively.
That contract situation significantly lowers his market value and opens the door for a cost-effective transfer. For Newcastle, balancing quality with financial prudence is essential as the club navigates within Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
A move for Bakayoko would align with their long-term strategy of signing high-upside talents who can develop under Eddie Howe and potentially become key assets both on the pitch and in terms of resale value.
Elanga remains Newcastle’s first-choice target, and it’s no secret why. The Swedish international had a standout season with Nottingham Forest, registering six goals and 12 assists.
However, after submitting a £55 million bid that still hasn’t led to a breakthrough, Newcastle must remain pragmatic. Elanga is open to the move and has connections within the Newcastle dressing room, including Sweden teammate Alexander Isak and William Osula.
But with the clock ticking and pre-season preparations already underway, Newcastle cannot afford to put all their hopes on one transfer materializing.
In contrast, Bakayoko could represent a smoother path to a deal. PSV may be inclined to sell now rather than risk losing the player for free next summer.
That possibility, combined with Bakayoko’s ambition to take the next step in his career, could set the stage for Newcastle to strike quickly should Elanga’s transfer talks collapse.
Newcastle’s attacking department is at a turning point. Reinforcements are required not just to add depth, but to elevate the quality and versatility of the squad.
With Champions League football and domestic ambitions demanding a stronger frontline, the club must be decisive. Whether it’s Elanga or Bakayoko, the message is clear: Newcastle are ready to act, and they won’t wait too long for doors to open.
If Elanga ultimately proves too difficult to land, Newcastle may well find that Bakayoko offers the ideal combination of potential, value, and availability.