Ankaragucu's supporters cheer for their team during the Turkish Super Lig football match between Ankaragucu and Fenerbahce at Eryaman Stadium in Ankara on April 7, 2019. (Photo by Adem ALTAN / AFP) (Photo credit should read ADEM ALTAN/AFP/Getty Images)
Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe have reportedly initiated talks with Aston Villa regarding the potential transfer of winger Leon Bailey. The move signals Mourinho’s intent to significantly strengthen his squad as he aims to challenge Galatasaray for dominance in the Turkish Süper Lig.
Aston Villa, while seemingly navigating the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) after the recent sale of their women’s team, still face the challenge of meeting UEFA’s financial requirements. This situation is expected to lead to several player departures from Villa Park, and Bailey could be among those finding an exit route.
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Mourinho, with his extensive knowledge of the Premier League, is said to be a keen admirer of the 27-year-old Jamaican international. The Fenerbahçe coach has also reportedly been working on a deal for another player with Aston Villa ties, Marco Asensio, who spent last season on loan at Villa Park. Asensio could soon join Fenerbahçe, potentially reuniting with Bailey if the latter’s move materializes.
According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Fenerbahçe has opened direct discussions with Aston Villa over Bailey. The specifics of the proposed deal, including the type of transfer (permanent or loan) and the gap between the clubs’ valuations, remain unclear.
Bailey, a versatile attacker capable of playing on either flank, made 24 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa last season.
However, he often struggled to secure a consistent starting spot under Unai Emery, which might make a new adventure with Fenerbahçe an appealing prospect. Notably, Bailey featured for Villa in the Champions League last season, and a move to Fenerbahçe would offer him another opportunity to compete in Europe’s premier club competition, as the Turkish side has qualifiers scheduled for later this summer.
Aston Villa currently has Bailey under contract for another two years. This contractual situation suggests that this summer presents the prime window to maximize his transfer value if the club does not intend to offer him an extension.