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The latest transfer news as Man Utd and Spurs are given the hurry-up to sign a £25m winger.
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Aston Villa have reportedly received an offer for Leon Bailey from Saudi Pro League newcomers Neom SC.
The Villans are expected to sacrifice Bailey this summer as they seek to ease concerns related to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR). English top-tier clubs are allowed to lose £105 million over a three-year period and Villa currently aren’t meeting that requirement, so at least one significant sale is required.
Bailey, who scored just two goals in 38 appearances across all competitions last campaign, is on the chopping block. The 27-year-old had an outstanding 2023/24 season as he scored 14 goals and provided 14 assists in 52 games, however he failed to carry such momentum into the term just gone.
The 34-time Jamaica international has always been a good example of a confidence player. One month, Bailey will have a spring in his step and will be so difficult for defenders to stop, but another will often see him fail to even take on his man.
It’s a great shame it’s worked out this way but selling Bailey is ultimately one of the best ways Villa can rectify their PSR issues. Unai Emery needs players who he can rely on week in and week out and Bailey unfortunately hasn’t been anywhere near consistent enough.
The Sun reports Bailey could be on his way sooner rather than later as Villa have received a £25 million bid from Neom. It’s claimed the Saudi outfit have already spoken to Bailey’s representatives, offering a life-changing £10 million per year tax-free.
It’s been clear to see for many months now that Bailey has been growing increasingly frustrated at Villa Park, falling down the pecking order following the arrivals of Morgan Rogers, Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford. Although the latter two were only signed on loan, Bailey suffered as his minutes plummeted.
The outpouring of emotions from Bailey after Villa’s final home game of the season was telling, too. The winger was tearful as he entered the field as a late substitute and he then went on to crouch down and brush the Villa Park turf once the final whistle had been blown. Bailey appeared to be recognising his Villa days were over.
Man Utd and Spurs could react to Leon Bailey development
It’s looking increasingly likely that Bailey will be moving to Saudi Arabia but Premier League sides Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur may have something to say about that. Both teams were heavily linked with Bailey during the winter transfer window and could yet reignite their interest.
From a footballing perspective, remaining in the Premier League would probably be the best option for Bailey, but starts might not be guaranteed at United or Spurs either. It’s tricky to say where the player’s mind is at but there are definitely benefits of moving to Saudi, not least in a financial sense. Time will tell.