Three Premier League Clubs Leon Bailey Could Join as Aston Villa Set for Imminent Loan Decision

Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey, currently on loan at Roma, is poised for a January move as Villa prepare an imminent decision on his future. The 28-year-old Jamaican international joined Serie A side Roma on a season-long loan in August 2025, but his stint has been underwhelming, prompting a premature return to Villa Park amid struggles for game time and impact[1][2][3].

Villa, under Unai Emery, signed replacements like Evann Guessand from OGC Nice and Jadon Sancho from Manchester United in the summer, but both have underperformed, opening the door for Bailey's potential reintegration[1]. However, reports suggest Villa view him as surplus and are open to further loans, with several clubs circling[2].

Three Premier League sides emerge as frontrunners for Bailey's signature. Bournemouth have shown strong interest, eyeing the pacey winger as a replacement for Antoine Semenyo, which could provide Villa with financial relief to bolster their squad beyond recent signing Alysson from Gremio[1]. Despite this, former Villa scout Bryan King advocates for Bailey's retention, praising his past contributions and noting the squad's settled nature: "If his time is up at Roma, he has proven in the past that he’s been decent for Villa... He’ll be an asset for the squad"[1].

Other Premier League clubs, though not named explicitly in recent updates, are reportedly monitoring the situation alongside La Liga's Girona, who have initiated contact for a loan until season's end to aid their relegation battle with Bailey's flair and pace[2][4]. Villa's hierarchy must decide swiftly—recall and utilize Bailey for depth, or sanction another loan to revive his career, building on his prior success at Bayer Leverkusen and early Villa promise despite injury setbacks[3].

Bailey, signed by Villa for £30m in 2021, craves regular minutes at this career stage. A Premier League return could reignite his form, but Girona represents a wildcard for a fresh start in Spain[2]. Villa's call looms large this January window.

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