Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of Leon Bailey from Bayer Leverkusen.
The 23-year-old has agreed personal terms on a deal until 2025 at Villa Park, having spent the previous four and a half seasons with Leverkusen.
An agreement was reached between the two clubs on Saturday and it’s understood the transfer fee is in the region of £30 million.
Head Coach Dean Smith said: “Leon is a hugely exciting young striker with great pace and creativity.
“He has enjoyed a successful career at Leverkusen and we are now looking forward to watching him show his skills and talents for Aston Villa in the Premier League.”
Bailey joined Leverkusen from Genk in 2017, having scored 15 goals in 72 appearances for the Belgian side. He managed 39 goals in 156 games while in Germany.
The Jamaica international has been targeted to bring an injection of pace into Villa’s attack. He scored nine goals in the Bundesliga last year and set up eight more.
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Leon Bailey: How the direct ball-carrier and versatile forward will fit into Villa's team
What is Bailey’s profile?
The wideman, who wears No 9 for Leverkusen, but played most of last season at right wing, is expected to take up a similar position at Villa.
His versatility appeals to Villa as he’s played on the left side of attack and down the middle, too.
Last season was his most productive to date and down the right appears to be where he is at his best.
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What does this mean for Villa’s existing players?
Manchester City are trying to sign Jack Grealish for £100 million so if he leaves, Villa will be light on attacking options.
Trezeguet is currently injured and Anwar El Ghazi is still attracting interest from clubs in Italy.
Villa have already signed Emi Buendia for a record-breaking £33 million and he played his best football for Norwich at right wing. He’s likely to be used more as a No 10 at Villa, though, with Bertrand Traore another wide option.
Teenager Jaden Philogene-Bidace has been among the goals in pre-season and will be an option at left wing next season.
Where will Bailey fit in at Villa?
Bailey is a gifted dribbler with quick feet, and last season displayed a keen eye for goal as he had his most productive scoring season to date.
He registered in the top two per cent of attacking midfielders/wingers for dribbles per 90 in last season’s Bundesliga and frequently carries the ball up the pitch.
Bailey has been brought it to strengthen Villa’s first XI and add attacking impetus to their side. For a full breakdown of how he will fit in at Villa Park, Go Deeper below.
(Photo: Alex Gottschalk/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
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