Latest developments
- Newcastle United are targeting PSV Eindhoven's Johan Bakayoko.
- The Magpies have been in the hunt for a new right-winger.
- PSR limits could see Newcastle forced to wait until the summer.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Key position for Toon
In the market for a new right-sided attacker, Newcastle have made PSV Eindhoven winger Johan Bakayoko one of their prime targets, but needing to comply with PSR might force Eddie Howe's men to wait until the summer to close the deal.
This news was broken by The Telegraph, and with no secret over where Newcastle need to improve, their is some plausibility to this rumour.
Value (3/5): PSV not looking to sell
With nine goal involvements this season, Bakayoko has emerged as one of the brightest talents at the Dutch champions, who will be desperate not to lose him mid-season.
The Belgium international is under contract until 2026, so PSV don't have long to either cash in or tie him down on a new deal. Valued at £33 million, the Boeren will likely want something in the £50 million range, which could be tricky for Newcastle as they attempt not to fall foul of PSR.
Suitability (4/5): Exactly what Howe needs
At only 21, Bakayoko is one of the big new hopes for Belgium's new generation, and though he has yet to play senior domestic football outside the Eredivisie, his excellent pace and skill can be utilised in any league in the world.
With Eddie Howe operating a front line of two wide men and a centre-forward, Bakayoko looks more than capable of filling the right-sided role at St James' Park.
Upgrade? (4/5): Almiron allowed to leave
Miguel Almiron has dropped down the pecking order in the last year or so, and it is said Newcastle will allow him to move on in January.
The other right-winger at the club is Jacob Murphy, and Howe doesn't seem to have that much faith in him either, only starting him in around 50% of their Premier League games, often playing Joelinton there instead. It looks to be a position that Bakayoko can make his own for the next few years.
Logic (2.5/5): Can Newcastle balance the books?
One of a handful of sides in the division looking to stay on the right side of PSR rules, Newcastle may be forced to sell key players such as Harvey Barnes and Alexander Isak.
Should they lose Isak in particular, a new centre-forward will probably become a higher priority, so they might be forced to wait a while before they can spend around £50 million on a right-winger.
Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25
Bakayoko will be wanting to test himself in a higher league, but with so many issues surrounding Newcastle's finances, there is enough reason to doubt whether this move will take place in the summer, let alone January.
