Manchester United are reportedly considering a late move for Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey, in a deal that would be separate from Marcus Rashford’s potential switch to Villa Park.
Rashford is set to undergo a medical with Villa ahead of a loan move that includes an option to buy for £40m in the summer.
The 27-year-old has fallen out of favor with Villa head coach Ruben Amorim, who has expressed dissatisfaction with his work ethic and attitude.
With Rashford’s imminent departure, United are now exploring new signing options for Old Trafford.
Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel remains a key target for United, according to The Athletic, despite the Frenchman’s desire to stay in Germany until the summer.
Tel recently turned down an approach from Tottenham Hotspur, who were keen to sign the 19-year-old for £50m, but Tel could yet leave Bayern if United can secure a loan deal offering more first-team opportunities.
Bailey, however, is also on United’s radar.
The Jamaican international is a left-footed right winger – quite the opposite of Rashford – and would provide another valuable attacking option for Amorim’s favoured 3-4-2-1 system.
If Bailey were to join, it would likely mean that Alejandro Garnacho, whose attitude and progress have been praised by Amorim, would remain at the club and operate primarily on the left side, rather than switching between the two wings.
Bailey could support United’s emerging star, Amad Diallo, on the right, with Bruno Fernandes’ role becoming more fluid after Kobbie Mainoo demonstrated his ability to play further forward in the 2-0 Europa League win over FCSB.
It’s unclear whether Villa would be willing to sell Bailey, but the winger hasn’t been guaranteed a regular starting role under Unai Emery this season.
Of the 29 appearances Bailey has made across all competitions, only 18 have been as a starter—13 in the Premier League and five in the Champions League.
Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku is once again being mentioned as an alternative, as his future at Stamford Bridge remains uncertain due to a lack of starts under manager Enzo Maresca, who has preferred Nicolas Jackson up front.
Read more: Tottenham hijack Wolves’ move for Lens defender Kevin Danso
Virgil van Dijk urges Liverpool fringe stars to stay ready for title push
Thomas Tuchel open to Marcus Rashford’s England return despite Man United struggles