Dutch pundit Wim Kieft has urged Johan Bakayoko not to join Liverpool given the jump in quality the Premier League presents.
Writing in De Telegraaf, the former Netherlands international made the case that the 20-year-old PSV winger is not ready to move to England at this stage in his career.
Hailed by Football Talent Scout as a ‘phenomenon’, Bakayoko is regarded as one of the best young talents in Europe and a prospect who can go straight to the top.
Yet for Kieft, now is not the time for Bakayoko to leave Holland, with Liverpool reportedly interested in signing the Belgian international.
The pundit said: “Bakayoko has qualities as a right winger, but something different is asked in the Premier League than against FC Utrecht or Sturm Graz.
“He plays more safe when teams adapt to him. He often lacks guts, while he possesses the qualities to go inside and out. A little more initiative wouldn’t hurt. But Liverpool at this stage of his career?”
Taking the word of a pundit is always risky, but Kieft’s comments on Bakayoko do ring true for how Liverpool should be approaching the PSV youngster.
There’s no denying that Bakayoko is an exciting talent and a player who could become a superstar at the right club, yet now is not the time for Liverpool to sign the winger.
Another year in Holland for Bakayoko could be ideal for his development, and Liverpool can return next year with an offer for the PSV winger where his game has taken another level.
