In a recent print edition, Gazet van Antwerpen (via Sport Witness) mentioned that Arsenal are keen on recruiting PSV Eindhoven winger Johan Bakayoko this summer. It has been claimed that the Gunners are eyeing a move to bring the Belgian wide player to the Emirates Stadium this off-season.
Bakayoko’s Impressive Form In Dutch Football
Bakayoko had a decent campaign at the Dutch club as he put in a series of impressive displays for them on the offensive end of the field. The 21-year-old scored 12 times and picked up nine assists in 33 matches for PSV Eindhoven last season in the league.
The Belgian talent has been a consistent performer in the final third based on his average of 2.9 shots, 2.1 key passes, 1.1 crosses and 2.8 dribbles per game in the Dutch Eredivisie. He has even distributed the ball relatively well after completing 87% of his attempted passes in the top tier of Dutch football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Dutch club will expire in the summer of 2026 which could make it tough for the Gunners to sign him on the cheap later this year.
What Will Bakayoko Add To Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta’s Side?
Bakayoko is a decent crosser of the ball and usually generates some power with his shot attempts. He has got the vision to create a few promising chances for his teammates in the final third and can make some dangerous runs with the ball out in the wide areas.
However, the Belgian talent is yet to prove his worth outside Dutch football. Thus, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta would have to be patient with his progress before he can get the best out of him at the North London club.
We can expect Bakayoko to add more quality and depth to Arteta’s attack. He is more than capable of earning a regular starting spot at the Emirates Stadium next season. Therefore, the Gunners would be wise to go all out to bring him to North London before the end of this transfer period.
At 21, Bakayoko has the potential to be a generational talent in the future which makes him a worthy target for Arsenal to pursue in the long run.
