Daniel Feliciano

Thu 4 January 2024 12:11, UK

Aston Villa are ready to open talks with Leon Bailey over a new contract at Villa Park after his “exceptional” form this season, according to HITC.

Writing on their website (4 January), the news outlet report that the club have made it clear to the player and his representatives that they plan on holding talks over a new deal soon.

Bailey’s current deal is due to expire in the summer of 2025 but Villa want to ensure he doesn’t get the final 12 months of his deal, which could leave the door ajar for rival clubs to take advantage.

“Aston Villa are ready to hand star forward Leon Bailey a new and improved contract at the club, HITC Football understands,” they wrote.

“The forward has just 18 months left on his contract at the club but sources understand that Villa have made it very clear to Bailey and his representatives that they want to proceed with talks over a new deal in the New Year.”

Beautiful

This is excellent news for Aston Villa fans as Bailey has really exploded into life at Villa Park after a slow start to life in the Midlands.

The Jamaica international has struggled with injuries during his time at the club, but the way Unai Emery wants to play football suits him perfectly and we’ve seen that in recent months.

His direct, pacey style perfectly suits the squad right now and his partnership with Moussa Diaby from their Bayer Leverkusen days is great to see, while Ollie Watkins has benefited from having their support too.

Bailey is in the prime of his career right now and for the next few years he is going to be the best version of himself, so getting him tied down to a new long-term deal not only means we get to keep him but also protects his value in case other top clubs try to come in for him.

It’s the most sensible move and is a no-brainer for all parties at this stage, so it’s excellent to hear that it’s the plan and is in the works.

In other Aston Villa news, pundit reacts as player en route for medical with transfer agreed.