Johan Bakayoko, the Belgian winger of Ivorian descent, could leave RB Leipzig during the January transfer window after struggling to establish himself since joining the German club from PSV Eindhoven in 2025.
According to Sky Sport, Leipzig are prepared to part ways with the 23-year-old, with the Bundesliga side reportedly placing a valuation of between €11m and €12m on a permanent transfer.
A loan move has also emerged as a possible option, although the latest information in the report suggests that a permanent departure could be more realistic under the current market conditions.
Bakayoko arrived at Leipzig in the summer of 2025 after an impressive spell at PSV, with the German club investing €18m in his services, alongside a further €4m in potential bonuses.
The Belgian international signed a contract running until 2030, with expectations that he would become an important attacking option for the club.
However, his time in Germany has not developed as anticipated. Despite being given opportunities, the winger has struggled to secure a regular starting position under successive managers.
He failed to establish himself during Ole Werner’s tenure last season and has also found it difficult to convince current coach Martin Demichelis that he deserves a consistent place in the starting team.
His limited involvement has become increasingly concerning this season, with the winger featuring in only four matches across the Bundesliga and German Cup.
Those appearances have amounted to just 149 minutes of playing time, further highlighting his struggle to make an impact at the club.
His overall statistics since arriving in Germany have also fallen short of expectations. Bakayoko has managed just three goals in 26 official appearances for Leipzig, a return that has not matched the attacking contribution expected from a player recruited to provide creativity and threat from the wings.
The financial aspect of a potential transfer could also complicate negotiations.
Bakayoko earns a fixed annual salary of slightly more than €10m, placing his wages in the lower end of the eight-figure range.
His contract also includes the possibility of additional payments through performance-related bonuses.
His lack of regular playing time last season meant he missed out on a significant bonus, adding another dimension to his situation at the German club.
For Leipzig, allowing the winger to leave could provide an opportunity to reconsider their attacking options, while Bakayoko would have the chance to find a team where he can enjoy more consistent football.
The January transfer window is therefore shaping up to be an important period for the Belgian international, whose career had previously gained momentum during his time at PSV Eindhoven.
Leipzig are also preparing for their fourth Champions League group-stage match against Manchester City, but Bakayoko’s immediate future at the club remains uncertain.
