Liverpool will be looking to bolster several areas of the pitch in the summer transfer window but first, they need to appoint a new manager.
With Jurgen Klopp leaving his post at the end of the season, it can be said that he won’t be part of any more future transfer-related matters.
While Liverpool are focussing on winning their remaining trophies, the club are checking on top players across the world constantly as part of their routine scouting.
Michael Edwards, who returned to Liverpool in the role of CEO, will have more power in running operations, and he will be assisted by Richard Hughes who is set to become the next Sporting Director at the club.
Earlier this week, Liverpool have been linked with a move for PSV winger Johan Bakayoko and Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that “it’s true” that several top clubs have been checking his progress.
Writing on Daily Briefing, Romano adds that Liverpool can only focus on transfer dealings once they appoint their next manager, and as such while they remain interested in the young attacker, there is “nothing concrete” at the moment.
Liverpool in the race for Johan Bakayoko
Sky Germany journalist Patrick Berger reported earlier this week that the Reds have earmarked Bakayoko as one of their top targets. The winger has a contract at PSV until 2027 and should be available for a fee between £42m-51m.
Romano wrote: “I’m aware there have been some stories about Liverpool targeting talented young PSV winger Johan Bakayoko, but there is nothing concrete happening yet, nothing serious, with the Belgium international 100% focused on PSV.
“Still, it’s true that many clubs have been monitoring Bakayoko since last summer. Scouts from English top clubs are always travelling to follow him, but it’s nothing more concrete than that for now, and at the end of the season we will likely see Bakayoko assessing his options.”
During the January transfer window, Brentford attempted to sign the 20-year-old, however, their £35m bid was rejected by the Dutch club.
Bakayoko has managed seven goals and nine assists in all competitions for PSV, and he could be a smart addition for Liverpool should they decide to move for him.
It will be interesting to see how Liverpool will approach the summer window following the departure of Klopp. The Reds could be tempted to sell Mohamed Salah if they receive another big offer for him from Saudi clubs, while Edwards and Hughes could make ruthless calls and offload some of the underperforming players as well.
