Aston Villa transfers: ‘Donyell Malen puts under-fire star under major pressure’
Donyell Malen’s arrival at Aston Villa in the January transfer window has left another big-money star under significant pressure, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.
Leon Bailey moved to Villa Park from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2021 for an initial £25million fee (Express and Star) and is now on notice in the view of the former Villans forward.
The Jamaican attacker has somewhat struggled this season, something that was not helped by fitness issues earlier in the campaign, scoring just one goal and providing only three assists in 24 appearances in all competitions (Transfermarkt).
It was confirmed on Tuesday that Aston Villa have completed the signing of Malen for an initial £21million (Sky Sports), which Agbonlahor believes will put further scrutiny on Bailey.
Taking to X to react to the signing of Malen, the former Villa striker wrote: “Pressures on Leon Bailey now to perform!”
Responding to that, Sky Sports journalist Dan Bardell suggested the deal could bring the best out of Bailey due to the position Malen can play, as he noted: “Might actually help him, thrived when Diaby arrived, and Malen may play in a role like Diaby.”
After Agbonlahor stated he hoped that would be the case, Bardell was quick to praise Bailey for his efforts in helping Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League last season, saying: “Think there’s been factors that have limited Bailey this season, not saying he’s been great obviously, but if we can get him back near what he was last season…. Did as much as anyone to get us to 4th.”
Agbonlahor though appeared still to be unconvinced, as he simply responded: “If he can beat a man it would be a start”!
Leon Bailey must step up for Aston Villa after tough season so far
Football Insider Verdict
Following the success they enjoyed in reaching the Champions League last season, expectations were always going to be higher for Unai Emery’s side in the current campaign.
As a result, Bailey’s underwhelming return in terms of goals and assists for Aston Villa simply does not seem to be at the required level for an attacker regardless.
But with the addition of Malen now confirmed there is of course even more competition for places in attack in this side.
Given he has not delivered in front of goal in recent months, Bailey may be a candidate to be moved down the pecking order in the wake of this new arrival.
That is a far cry from last season when there were some questions about whether his excellent form could see him leave Aston Villa.
Now it seems as though Bailey may have rediscover that sort of touch in attack if he wants to keep his place in the side, and avoid questions being asked about him for rather different reasons.
In other news, Celtic have set their sights on signing an Aston Villa star.
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