Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey has agreed terms to join Greek Super League club Olympiacos. According to a report from X user @nafi_auwal80838, the two clubs have reached a verbal agreement for a permanent transfer, with the player set to sign a contract running until the summer of 2029. A medical examination is now being arranged in Athens to finalise the move.
This development comes as Villa look to reshape their squad after a difficult start to the Premier League season. The club currently sits 19th in the table with zero points from their opening two matches, having lost both games. Their form is a concern, with zero goals scored and five conceded, leaving them with a -5 goal difference. You can track their progress on our standings page.
What does Bailey's departure mean for Villa's attack?
Leon Bailey's exit removes a direct and pacey option from the Villa frontline. The Jamaican international joined the club in 2021 and has been a rotational figure, capable of moments of individual brilliance. His potential departure was reported this week, with the agreement signalling Villa's willingness to move players on. The club's immediate focus will now shift to their next fixture, an away trip to face Hull City on September 5th. Hull currently sit 3rd in the Championship, making it a tough test for a Villa side searching for their first points of the campaign. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures list.
How does this transfer fit into Villa's current situation?
The move occurs against the backdrop of a challenging period for the club. Aston Villa are already six points behind league leaders Manchester City after just two games, highlighting the scale of the task ahead. Offloading a squad player like Bailey could free up resources, both in terms of wages and a potential transfer fee, for future business. The reported contract length until 2029 suggests Olympiacos view the 28-year-old as a long-term asset for their own ambitions.
Where does this leave Villa's squad depth?
With Bailey poised to leave, manager Unai Emery's options on the wing are reduced. The club will likely assess their remaining personnel, which can be viewed in detail on our squad page, ahead of the closing of the transfer window. This sale may prompt internal discussions about promoting from the academy or entering the market for a replacement. The immediate priority, however, is arresting the poor form that has seen them lose their first two league matches.
Villa's next opportunity to turn their season around comes in four days' time against Hull City at the MKM Stadium.
