Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a summer move for Leon Bailey after ending their pursuit of AS Monaco attacker Thomas Lemar.
According to a report by Daily Mirror, Liverpool have decided to scrap their interest in Thomas Lemar who, they believe, is eager to join Barcelona. The Reds have instead turned their attention towards Bayer Leverkusen winger Leon Bailey, who has become a highly sought-after figure in the transfer market.
Bailey’s stock has skyrocketed considerably since he joined Bayer Leverkusen in the winter of 2016, having already been regarded as an exciting young prospect. Over the last 12 months though, the player has established himself as a pivotal figure for the Bundesliga outfit, especially in their bid for a top four finish.
So far this season, Bailey has an impressive record of 10 goals and 5 assists in 22 appearances across all competitions, and it is not hard to see why numerous clubs are scouting him every week. The likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have reportedly been monitoring his progress, and Liverpool are the latest English suitors in his pursuit.
leon bailey. someone i’d really love at chelsea pic.twitter.com/QGS13raFSK
— 〽¹¹ (@TheEdenEra) February 7, 2018
The Reds are reported to be in the market for attacking reinforcements following the departure of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona last month. In fact, Liverpool were believed to be the favourites to sign Thomas Lemar in the January window, before a move failed to materialise.
The Merseyside club have now ended their interest in the AS Monaco forward as Jurgen Klopp believes his heart is set on a move to Barcelona. But, the bid to create another formidable attacking quarter has now seen him shift his focus towards his homeland, with Bailey now Liverpool’s subject of interest.
Still only 20, the Jamaican has shown a lot of promise, and Klopp’s record of moulding attackers could make this an ideal deal for all parties. Another reason why Bailey is an attractive prospect is due to his ability to play on either wing equally adeptly, as well as through the middle, potentially providing the Liverpool boss with a multitude of options.
The only possible stumbling block for Liverpool could be the price that Bayer Leverkusen have slapped on Bailey. The report suggests that the Reds will need to shell out £100 million to secure his services, with the German club eager to keep hold of him.
It now reains to be seen if the asking price ends up being prohibitive for Liverpool, or if they end up breaking their transfer record for a second successive window..
