Aston Villa look set to continue their big summer spending with a move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Leon Bailey, talkSPORT understands.
The Jamaican, 23, bagged 15 goals and eight assists for the German side last season, further establishing himself as one of the Bundesliga’s brightest forwards.
After the arrival of winger Emi Buendia from Norwich in a deal which could reach £40million, Bailey is likely to cost between £25m and £30m.
Bailey predominantly features on the right, but is capable across every position in a front three.
The interest comes after Villa made two unsuccessful bids for Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe – and the Villains are clearly keen to spend big up top this summer.
That could be due to the uncertainty surrounding star player Jack Grealish.
Premier League champions Manchester City are desperate to sign the 25-year-old England star, who was one of the Premier League’s standout performers last season.
While Grealish recently signed a new long-term contract, Villa may struggle to keep him if City cough up the £100m asking price.
And with £70m already budgeted on new forwards, there is a chance Villa are preparing for life after Grealish.
However, the club’s owners – Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens – are among the richest in the top-flight – and it is also possible they are investing into a future with Grealish at the heart of it.
