Forested Side intensifies search for Elanga substitute, eyeing a 33-goal striker - insider reports
Johan Bakayoko, the Belgian winger currently at PSV Eindhoven, has been the centre of attention in the summer transfer market. With a host of top-tier clubs vying for his signature, the final destination for the 25-year-old remains uncertain.
Initially, RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen, Borussia Dortmund, Nottingham Forest, Everton, and Newcastle United all expressed interest in Bakayoko. However, on July 16, 2025, RB Leipzig officially announced the signing of Bakayoko on a contract until 2030, with a reported transfer fee of €22 million, including €18 million upfront and €4 million in bonuses.
Leverkusen had been in advanced talks to secure Bakayoko's services, with a reported transfer fee of around €20 million. Nevertheless, they were unable to match RB Leipzig's offer. Dortmund had also shown interest in Bakayoko but did not make a successful bid.
Nottingham Forest initially showed interest in Bakayoko but focused on other targets. However, with the departure of Anthony Elanga to Newcastle for a club-record sale of £55million, Forest view Bakayoko as the ideal replacement.
Everton and Newcastle also expressed interest in Bakayoko, with Everton making an offer. Newcastle, meanwhile, pursued and signed Anthony Elanga, who was their first choice.
The situation regarding Bakayoko's transfer is expected to become clearer in the coming weeks as suitors continue talks with PSV and the player's entourage. PSV are asking for around €25million (£21.7m / $29.2m) for Bakayoko, but there is room for negotiation as he has entered the final 12 months of his contract.
Borussia Dortmund have shown interest in Bakayoko and have been tracking him for a long period. Forest, too, are interested in Bakayoko and are confident of reaching an agreement. Bayer Leverkusen are also attempting to sign the PSV winger.
RB Leipzig have also expressed interest in Bakayoko and are monitoring the situation. Forest believe that the promise of regular playing time, as well as their ambitious project for success domestically and in Europe, will help convince Bakayoko to sign for them.
Nottingham Forest find Johan Bakayoko attractive for his quality and potential. Additionally, Forest are also interested in Manchester City star James McAtee, according to TEAMtalk.
As the transfer window progresses, the future of Johan Bakayoko remains uncertain. With multiple clubs vying for his signature, it will be interesting to see where the talented winger ends up.
Johan Bakayoko's destination in European-leagues remains uncertain, as Nottingham Forest, despite initially showing interest in other targets, now view him as the ideal replacement for Anthony Elanga. Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are also attempting to sign him, while RB Leipzig, Bakayoko's confirmed transfer destination, believe their promise of regular playing time and ambitious project for success will convince him. Despite Forest's efforts, Bakayoko's future remains uncertain as the transfer window progresses and multiple clubs continue talks with PSV Eindhoven.
