Aston Villa Winger Is On The Radar Of Arsenal: Should Emery Cash In On Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, The Daily Express claimed that Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey is on the radar of Arsenal. It is understood that the Gunners are showing interest in recruiting the Jamaican wide player from the Villans this summer.

Bailey’s Impressive Run Of Form At Villa Park

Bailey is enjoying a great campaign at Villa Park as he has been responsible for producing a series of productive displays on the right side of Unai Emery’s attack. The Jamaican sensation has found the back of the net 12 times and picked up 11 assists in 40 matches for Aston Villa this season across multiple competitions.

The Kingston-born talent has given a good account of himself in the opponent’s half based on his average of 1.6 shots, 1.5 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution after completing 77.8% of his attempted passes in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).

His current contract at the West Midlands club will expire in the summer of 2027, so Unai Emery is under no immediate pressure to let him go in the upcoming transfer window.

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – MARCH 07: Leon Bailey of Villa looks on during the UEFA Europa Conference League 2023/24 round of 16 first leg match between AFC Ajax and Aston Villa at Johan Cruijff Arena on March 07, 2024 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

Should Aston Villa Boss Unai Emery Cash In On Bailey?

Bailey has got the quickness to cause a lot of headaches for his marker out on the flanks. He can shoot the ball with power and accuracy from long range and can also set up a few clear-cut chances for others around him on the offensive end of the field. The Jamaican sensation mainly plays as a right-winger but can also fill in as a left-sided wide player if asked to do so by his manager.

At the moment, Bailey is enjoying his football at Villa Park. Thus, the Villans should not consider cashing in on him in the summer transfer period. Emery would be better off keeping hold of him for at least the duration of his contract as he might help Aston Villa compete for a top-four spot once again in the Premier League over the next few years.

At 26, Bailey has got his best years ahead of him, so the Villans should think about retaining his services beyond the end of this campaign.