After several challenging seasons at Aston Villa, Jamaican winger Leon Bailey is turning a new page.
The 28-year-old has joined Serie A side Roma on loan for the 2025-26 campaign, aiming to regain the form that made him a star in Germany.
The Loan Deal and Roma’s Ambitions
Bailey’s move to Roma reportedly includes a £19 million option to make the transfer permanent.
Under the guidance of Gian Piero Gasperini, Roma finished fifth in Serie A last season and have already strengthened their squad with Brighton striker Evan Ferguson this summer.
For Bailey, this represents a chance to play in a top European league once again and prove his value after a mixed spell in the Premier League.
Bailey’s Villa Journey
Leon Bailey arrived at Aston Villa from Bayer Leverkusen in a £25 million deal back in 2021.
Over four seasons, he has made 144 appearances and scored 22 goals. Initially a regular starter under Unai Emery, injuries and inconsistent form limited his game time in later campaigns.
The winger’s peak came in the 2023-24 season, when he scored 14 goals and provided 13 assists across 52 appearances.
He also played a key role in Villa’s Champions League run, scoring and assisting in the last-16 victory over Club Brugge before their exit against Paris Saint-Germain.
A Disappointing Recent Campaign
Despite flashes of brilliance, Bailey’s 2024-25 season was largely underwhelming.
He managed just two goals in 38 games and gradually fell down the pecking order as Villa bolstered their attacking options.
A new contract signed in February 2024 runs until 2027, but this loan to Roma with an option-to-buy clause could determine his long-term future.
Villa’s Busy Summer of Departures
Bailey’s departure is part of a flurry of exits from Villa Park this summer.
Midfielder Leander Dendoncker has joined Real Oviedo, and other squad members are reportedly being linked with moves before the transfer window closes.
Roma’s Hope for a Revived Star
For Roma, the expectation is clear: Bailey must rediscover the pace, creativity, and goal threat that made him a top Bundesliga performer.
If he succeeds, the loan could become a permanent move, offering both player and club a fresh start.
