Aston Villa are set to sign exciting winger Leon Bailey from Bayer Leverkusen after reaching a reported £30 million (€35m) agreement over a transfer with the German side.
A move to the Premier League has been mooted for some time for the 23-year-old, who has spent the last four-and-a-half years in the Bundesliga.
That move now appears to be on the verge of being completed, with only a medical needed before the deal is made official.
What has been said?
A statement on Villa's official website reads: "Aston Villa and Bayer Leverkusen have reached an agreement for the transfer of Leon Bailey subject to the player completing a medical and finalising personal terms."
Earlier this week, meanwhile, Bailey himself spoke of wanting to take on a new challenge.
"One hundred per cent, I’m totally ready for the next step," the Jamaica international told ESPN.
"I’ve been working hard to be able to reach where I am today. I feel like I’m at an age and point in my life where I feel like I’m ready for the next step. Hopefully we can make that happen.
"For me, just playing at the top. The highest level. I feel like I need a new challenge so anywhere where it’s a good opportunity for me to really showcase myself and work hard."
Preparing for Grealish exit?
Having already snapped up former Norwich attacker Emiliano Buendia and adding Ashley Young to their ranks after he had slipped into free agency following his time at Inter, the Villans have not been shy in the transfer market.
The addition of another attacker in Bailey, however, will undoubtedly pour more fuel on the fire regarding reports that Jack Grealish could be on his way to Manchester City before the new season starts.
It has been claimed that Villa are prepared to accept a £100m ($139m) bid from City for their captain.
What next for Villa?
Following their 3-0 friendly win over Bristol City on Saturday, Villa welcome Sevilla to Birmingham for their final pre-season clash on Saturday, August 7.
They will then kick off their 2021-22 Premier League campaign with a trip to newly-promoted Watford.
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