Credit: Imago

Max Wilkins

Wed 13 May 2026 18:00, UK

Aston Villa will likely have to hold off until they can make a move for Millwall star Femi Azeez.

The Championship Team of the Year winger is coming off the back of a stellar season at The Den and has been linked with a Premier League move ahead of the summer.

Links away from East London have only stepped up after Alex Neil’s side missed out on promotion via the playoffs.

A 2-0 defeat at home to Hull City sealed their fate and has left the Lions fearing for where their best players could end up.

Azeez has emerged as a target for Villa already, but a deal could all hinge on whether Leon Bailey finally seals a permanent deal away from B6.

Aston Villa need rid of Leon Bailey now

There have to be some home truths spoken about the Jamaica international who just hasn’t lived up to expectations since his move from Bayer Leverkusen.

He was part of Christian Purslow’s three to replace Jack Grealish, but has struggled overall to truly showcase his qualities.

Besides his one elite campaign in 2023/24, where Villa secured Champions League qualification, his work has been largely shoddy outside of that.

It’s clear that Unai Emery felt the same way ahead of the current season when the 28-year-old was shipped out on loan to Roma before being recalled.

His struggles have continued in B6 ever since, and it is now time to finally call it a day, regardless of what happens in the final weeks of the season.

A new wide man is wanted at Villa Park, and Azeez is one of those, but a deal may have to wait until Bailey moves on permanently.

Femi Azeez to replace Bailey at Aston Villa

There are a number of options linked with a move to the Midlands ahead of the summer, but it is clear that a winger is wanted.

Ez Abde of Real Betis has been linked recently, with Azeez also being named as a potential target after his Premier League dreams were dashed by Hull City.

Former Villa and Millwall icon scout Bryan King believes the claret and blue outfit will be in the race for his signature, even if he comes at a sizable cost.

He said: “I would expect plenty of clubs to come in for him and even bid £30m, and that wouldn’t be a silly figure. He’s a talented player, and he’s the sort of player that Aston Villa need.

“He’s got a trick, and after his performances this season, he’s certainly put himself in the frame for a move. Signing for Villa would be a great move for him and would be a great payday for Millwall.”

It could prove an excellent move for all parties, but it may hinge on Bailey’s future prospects and his B6 departure.