Why Manchester United must reignite interest in Leon Bailey
Bayer Leverkusen star Leon Bailey has admitted to Four Four Two that he snubbed Manchester, United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City in order to join the Bundesliga side in 2017.
The 21-year-old Jamaican, one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe, sealed a move to Bayer Leverkusen in January 2017 after starring for Genk, where he netted 16 goals in 77 games.
With nine goals and six assists in the Bundesliga last season, Leon Bailey established himself as one of the top young wingers in Europe. However, he has started just five of the team’s 10 games this term, scoring one goal in the process.
According to ESPN, Bailey’s lack of minutes on the pitch has left him frustrated, and he may consider a move in January if things don’t improve. Keeping that in mind, should Manchester United make a move for Bailey in January?
Manchester United have recovered from a torrid start in the Premier League but currently, they sit outside the top-four. Jose Mourinho’s side have shown a lot of fighting spirit and endeavour in the last few games, suggesting there is still life left in the team.
However, if Mourinho and co. harbour to realistically challenge for the title this season, a player like Bailey could go onto be a decisive factor for the club.
Bailey has incredible pace, power and possesses the ability to dribble with the ball out of congested areas to create chances for his teammates. He is also capable of coming up with long-range scorchers.
The Jamaican has been a nightmare for several defenders in the Bundesliga because of his explosive pace, dribbling skills and trickery. He has a deadly left foot which is capable of producing moments of magic by either scoring a pile-driver or putting in a delicious cross into the box for his teammates.
A pacey, left-footed winger with a real eye for the goal, Bailey would fit the bill perfectly at United. Even though the Red Devils are blessed with a lot of options in the attacking department, a player of Bailey’s quality certainly shouldn’t be missed by Mourinho.
United have the likes of Jesse Lingard, Marcus Rashford and Juan Mata vying for the right-wing role but Bailey would be an interesting option. In fact, the Jamaican international could be a fantastic long-term replacement for Juan Mata, who is out of contract at the end of the season.
Bailey’s pace and skills could truly benefit United’s attack but he needs to work on the physical aspects of his game in order to become a hit in the Premier League. He has a lot of potential and already has shown his class in the Bundesliga, which should prompt Mourinho to splash the cash in January.
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At 21, Bailey has an entire career ahead of him and signing the jet-heeled winger would give Mourinho’s side a much-needed boost in January.