Nottingham Forest has set their sights on Johan Bakayoko as the ideal replacement for Anthony Elanga, but the question remains whether the Belgian forward is interested in making the move.
Forest identified Bakayoko as their top target after it became apparent that Newcastle United was making progress in talks for Elanga. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo is in need of a player with pace and directness to fill the void left by Elanga.
However, it has been reported that Bakayoko is being pursued by four other clubs, including Premier League sides Bournemouth and Everton.
Despite this competition, Nottingham Forest News has revealed that the club is in discussions to secure Bakoyoko’s signature, with PSV holding out for a £17m transfer fee. But, a recent report may complicate Forest’s pursuit of the player.
At just 22 years old, Bakayoko has excelled in Dutch football, winning the Eredivisie title with PSV and competing in the UEFA Champions League. It is reported that he has a preference for staying in the Champions League with his next move.
One of Bakayoko’s potential destinations, Bayer Leverkusen, finished second in the Bundesliga last season, earning a spot in the Champions League. They are considered favorites to sign Bakayoko, as they are in need of a winger like Forest.
Forest’s recruitment team hopes to convince Bakayoko that their project offers a chance at reaching the Champions League and that playing in the Premier League is equally appealing. They face stiff competition from clubs like Bayer Leverkusen in their pursuit of the talented forward.
