Manchester United Consider Shock Leon Bailey Move as Deadline Nears

Leon Bailey an Option for Red Devils as Transfer Window Nears End

Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a late move for Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey, as the transfer deadline looms. This potential signing would be independent of Marcus Rashford’s expected loan move to Villa, which includes a £40m option to buy in the summer.

Marcus Rashford Set to Depart on Loan

Marcus Rashford, who has fallen out of favor with new United head coach Ruben Amorim, is on the verge of finalizing a loan move to Aston Villa. The 27-year-old forward has been sidelined due to concerns over his work ethic and attitude, and Amorim has deemed him surplus to requirements.

Rashford is undergoing a medical at Villa, with the deal structured as a loan that could become permanent for £40m in the summer. His departure paves the way for United to bring in fresh attacking options.

Man Utd Still Keen on Mathys Tel Amid Bayern Munich Talks

Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel remains a prime target for Manchester United. The 19-year-old French forward, who has already rejected a move to Tottenham Hotspur, is yet to decide on his immediate future. Spurs were willing to pay £50m for a permanent transfer, but Tel has indicated a preference to remain in Germany until the summer.

United, however, are exploring a possible loan deal with Bayern, which could provide Tel with increased first-team opportunities. Should Bayern agree to a temporary move, United would have a strong chance of securing his services.

Leon Bailey Emerges as a Strong Contender for Man Utd

While Tel remains a priority, Leon Bailey has now emerged as a viable alternative. The Jamaican international, a left-footed right winger, offers the perfect contrast to Rashford’s right-footed left-wing play and could fit seamlessly into Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 tactical system.

Leon Bailey’s arrival would likely confirm Alejandro Garnacho’s continued presence on the left flank. The young Argentine has impressed Amorim with his attitude and development, and should Bailey join, Garnacho could focus entirely on his natural left-wing role instead of shifting between positions.

This move would also complement United’s rising star, Amad Diallo, who has made a strong impression on the right flank. With Bruno Fernandes adopting a more fluid attacking midfield role, and Kobbie Mainoo excelling in a more advanced position—most notably in United’s 2-0 Europa League win over FCSB—

Bailey could add further dynamism to United’s attack.

Will Aston Villa Entertain Selling Leon Bailey?

It remains to be seen whether Aston Villa would be willing to part ways with Leon Bailey, given his contributions under Unai Emery. The 26-year-old winger has made 29 appearances across all competitions this season, but only 18 of those have been starts—13 in the Premier League and five in the Champions League.

While Leon Bailey has played a crucial role for Villa, he has not been an undisputed starter under Emery, which could make a transfer plausible. Should United table a compelling offer, Villa might consider cashing in on the Jamaican international.

Christopher Nkunku: Another Alternative for United?

Another player reportedly on United’s radar is Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku. The French attacker has struggled for regular starting opportunities under Enzo Maresca, with Nicolas Jackson often preferred in Chelsea’s forward line.

Nkunku’s situation remains fluid, and if Chelsea are open to negotiations, United could explore a late deal for the former RB Leipzig star. However, it is unclear whether Chelsea would sanction a move to a direct rival at this stage of the season.

Conclusion: Will United Strengthen Before the Deadline?

With Marcus Rashford’s departure imminent, United have a significant decision to make regarding their attacking reinforcements. Whether they push forward with Mathys Tel, pursue a deal for Leon Bailey, or consider an alternative such as Christopher Nkunku, will become clear in the coming days.

As the January transfer deadline nears, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see if Ruben Amorim gets the attacking firepower he needs to shape his vision for Manchester United.