Latest developments
- Ipswich Town are interested in Mohamed Bayo.
- Royal Antwerp and Besiktas are also interested in the striker.
- Lille appear open to selling their striker in the final hours of the window.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Reliable French outlet spark Bayo exit rumours
Mohamed Bayo started for Lille in their 6-1 win over Feyenoord in the Champions League on Wednesday and now it is being suggested he could depart the club in the final hours of the winter window as Ipswich Town have “positioned themselves” to make a concrete move.
The story comes from French publication L'Equipe, who add that Royal Antwerp and Besiktas are also interested.
Value (3.5/5): Loan offer already on the table
The Belgian outfit have already expressed their desire to sign Bayo in a loan deal, but they've yet to find a breakthrough in talks with Lille. As such, Ipswich might overtake them if they offer a fee for a permanent transfer for the £3.3million-rated forward.
Suitability (3/5): Aerial threat
The 6′ 2″ striker is impressive in aerial duels. His physicality would make him a good center-forward should Kieran McKenna decide to opt for long balls to unlock defences in the dying moments of the game.
Apart from that, however, there's little else for Ipswich fans to be excited about. Indeed, Bayo has just two goals so far this season, meaning that the likes of Danny Ings may be more suitable when it comes to those relegation six-pointers.
Upgrade? (3/5): Cover for Delap
In Liam Delap, McKenna already has a brilliant traditional number nine. Accordingly, Ipswich's pursuit of Bayo suggests they are only looking to increase the options at their manager's disposal rather than replace Delap.
Logic (2.5/5): Best to move to Belgium
If Bayo wants to play regularly and make a difference for his side, it would be best for him to either stay at Lille or move to Belgium to represent Royal Antwerp, who play in a relatively easier league compared to England's brutal top-flight.
Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25
Ipswich have seemingly joined the race very late, and only a decisive all-or-nothing bid would help them beat other suitors for Bayo.
