Aston Villa in negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen to sign Leon Bailey

Aston Villa mean business this transfer window. The villains have picked up Emiliano Buendia, they brought back Ashley Young on a free transfer after he left Inter Milan, they have made bids for Emile Smith Rowe, and most importantly, they still have Jack Grealish. There are rumors he could even extend his contract with the villains. Now, Aston Villa are targeting Bayer Leverkusen’s Jamaican winger Leon Bailey. Leon Bailey’s stepfather/agent has confirmed negotiations to Bild. The fee of about thirty million Pounds is the rumor.

Leon Bailey is an exciting and rapid left-footed winger who can play on the left or on the right. After arriving from Genk in the middle of the 16/17 season, he made a couple of substitute appearances. He exploded into life the following season scoring 9 goals and creating 9 big chances in 25 starts. As with most youngsters that enjoy an early breakout, he struggled to keep up. He had two frustrating campaigns but made a habit of giving great performances in big games. The 20/21 season was Leon Bailey’s. He scored 9 goals and created 9 big chances in the Bundesliga. Bailey scored 5 goals in the UEFA Europa League and created 3 big chances. He also scored 1 goal in the DFB-Pokal. His performances have resulted in English Premier League interest.

Aston Villa have great wide options but adding a winger like Leon Bailey would represent a coup for the Birmingham side. He has mentioned that he prefers playing on the right where he can cut in to shot. Aston Villa have Bertrand Traore playing there and they Anwar El Ghazi too. Traore scored 7 goals and created 6 big chances which was decent. The addition of Leon Bailey will bring strong competition and will leave them strong if Jack Grealish does eventually leave. Aston Villa coach Dean Smith will be hoping to build on his side’s 20/21 season as he deals with the departure of assistant coach John Terry.