Johan Bakayoko’s future at RB Leipzig is uncertain, with the German club reportedly prepared to consider his departure during the next winter transfer window.
The Belgium international, who is of Ivorian origin, joined Leipzig from PSV Eindhoven in the summer of 2025 hoping to take the next step in his career. However, according to Sky Sport, the 23-year-old is no longer firmly in the club’s plans.
Bakayoko signed a contract running until 2030 after Leipzig paid €18m for his services, with a further €4m potentially due in bonuses. Despite that significant investment and the long-term agreement, he has been unable to establish himself as a regular starter.
He was given opportunities under Ole Werner last season but did not do enough to secure a consistent place in the starting line-up. The situation has not improved since Martin Demichelis succeeded Werner, with Bakayoko again failing to convince sufficiently to become a first-choice player.
Leipzig would reportedly seek between €11m and €12m, or potentially more, for a permanent transfer. However, a loan move in January is considered the more realistic possibility given the current circumstances.
Such an arrangement would give Bakayoko the chance to play more regularly elsewhere and rebuild his confidence. It would also allow RB Leipzig to reassess his position after several months rather than commit immediately to a permanent sale.
His wages could become another factor in negotiations. Bakayoko’s fixed salary is in the lower part of the eight-figure range, meaning it is slightly above €10m. That amount can rise through performance-related bonuses, although he missed a substantial bonus last season because of his limited playing time.
Limited return
Bakayoko’s record since arriving in Germany has not matched the expectations surrounding his transfer. He has made 26 official appearances for RB Leipzig but has scored only three goals.
That output is low for a player recruited to provide pace, penetration and an attacking threat from wide areas. His involvement this season has been even more restricted.
He has played only four matches in the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal, totalling 149 minutes on the pitch. With his opportunities continuing to be limited, a move away in January is becoming increasingly likely.
For Bakayoko, the priority will be to find a club where he can regain regular football, restore his confidence and revive the momentum he built during his time at PSV Eindhoven.