Hull City have made a formal approach to Aston Villa regarding winger Leon Bailey, with the Jamaican international expected to depart Villa Park before the close of the transfer window. The newly promoted Premier League side are also pursuing five other signings, having already secured Matt Targett on a free transfer from Newcastle United, according to TEAMtalk.
Aston Villa have informed Bailey he is free to find a new club as Unai Emery continues to reshape the squad ahead of their Champions League campaign. The 28-year-old has one year remaining on his current contract, influencing the nature of potential negotiations.
Hull City would prefer a loan deal for Bailey, but Aston Villa are reportedly seeking a permanent transfer due to the player’s contractual situation. Bailey’s representatives are currently evaluating all available options before making a decision on his future.
The former Bayer Leverkusen player has scored 78 goals in 407 career appearances and has also been offered to Leeds United and Everton, though neither club has followed up on the offer at this stage. Ipswich Town previously expressed interest, but have since shifted their focus to Leicester City’s Abdul Fatawu, who is nearing a £20 million move to Portman Road.
Interest in Bailey extends beyond the Premier League, with Spanish side Celta Vigo and newly promoted Bundesliga teams Elversberg and Paderborn all making enquiries. Turkish club Trabzonspor are also in the running, targeting a new winger this summer and also holding discussions with Middlesbrough’s Morgan Whittaker.
Despite interest from abroad, TEAMtalk reports that Hull City have emerged as the frontrunners for Bailey’s signature. The player is reportedly keen to remain in England due to his family’s settled lifestyle and the education of his children. Negotiations are ongoing as Hull continue a busy summer of recruitment in preparation for their return to the Premier League after a seven-year absence.
Alongside Bailey, Hull have agreed a deal for Sweden winger Elliot Stroud from Mjällby, and Oscar Zambrano is set to return on a permanent basis following a successful loan spell. Goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis is expected to complete his move from Olympiacos this week after protracted negotiations. Hull have also made an offer to free agent Senegal striker Bamba Dieng, though he is expected to move elsewhere in Europe. Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Renato Sanches has also been offered to the club as they seek experienced additions to Sergej Jakirovic’s squad.
