Aston Villa took supporters by surprise when the club splashed the cash to sign Emi Buendia from Norwich. The $42 million transfer made Buendia, 24, Villa's record signing.
Now, Villa looks set to shell out again as the club has announced a deal to sign Leon Bailey from Bayer Leverkusen. The Jamaican scored 39 goals and provided 26 assists in 156 appearances for the Bundesliga side. Bailey will add electrifying pace to a Villa front line that looks set to get supporters' mouths watering.
An attack of Ollie Watkins, Leon Bailey, Emiliano Buendía and Bertrand Traoré is going to be fun to watch next season. https://t.co/2AEtemeH9s
— Zach Lowy (@ZachLowy) July 31, 2021
The move for Bailey could yet prove to be a double-edged sword, though, as with Villa spending like never before, there is speculation they may be already spending the "Jack Grealish money," with their captain heavily linked to Manchester City in recent weeks. While it would doubtless sting to see Grealish depart, at the rumored $118 million, the Villains would be able to add considerable talent to the squad.
Leon Bailey deal will be officially completed next week for £30m to Bayer Leverkusen. Aston Villa are offering Bailey a five-years contract, they’re set to reach the agreement on personal terms too. #AVFC
Medical and official announcement next week. What a deal for Villa. pic.twitter.com/OsZeoOMzev— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 31, 2021
Bailey has lit up the Bundesliga in recent seasons as his dribbling ability and confidence from long range have seen the 23-year-old produce many highlight-reel moments. It's been another exciting transfer window for Villa supporters after last season saw the club sign Ollie Watkins, Bertrand Traore, Matty Cash and Emi Martinez.
Bailey has been linked with several clubs across Europe in the past few years, including fellow Premier League side Liverpool. Dean Smith and Villa have secured themselves a gem of a player, and the club will be one to keep an eye on next season.
