1 week ago
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Craig Butler, agent of Jamaican international Leon Bailey, has confirmed that while there are ongoing discussions surrounding a move to Serie A giants AS Roma, among other clubs, the player remains committed to English Premier League outfit Aston Villa.
Speaking with The Gleaner, Butler confirmed that Bailey has received offers from a number of clubs, chief among them being Roma.
However, while there are ongoing discussions with these clubs, Butler said Bailey’s only focus now as a player is remaining a consummate professional and honouring his contract with Aston Villa.
“There are around five clubs who are interested in the player, but he is still a Villa player, and that is where he is focused on at this time,” Butler said.
“Roma is a beautiful club and city, so any opportunity that comes from them has to be taken seriously and considered.”
Reputable football correspondent David Ornstein reported that Roma’s ongoing discussions with Aston Villa are in relation to a potential loan deal, with an obligation to buy the Jamaican international.
At this point, no formal bid has been made for Bailey’s signature, but a deal is expected to materialise as negotiations continue.
Roma have been active in the current transfer market following the appointment of Gian Piero Gasperini as head coach two months ago.
The Italian club has made six signings during the summer transfer window, which includes a loan deal for Brighton’s young striker Evan Ferguson.
TIME AT VILLA
Bailey arrived at Aston Villa in 2021, following an impressive spell with Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen, and signed a contract extension with the English club last year, which runs through to 2027.
Since then, the winger has made 144 appearances across all competitions with the club, scoring 22 goals and providing 24 assists.
His best return for the Midlands club came in the 2023-24 season, where he bagged 12 goals and 13 assists in 49 games.
However, his time with Aston Villa looks to be coming to an end as he is considered one of the players available to leave the club.
The winger has also been fielding interest from Turkey, with Besiktas being one of the clubs interested in his signature.
There were also reports surrounding a move to the Saudi Pro League earlier in the season, which did not materialise.
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