Report: Arsenal to rival Chelsea for Leon Bailey if they sell 20-goal talisman

Wed 18 March 2020 13:15, UK

Arsenal could rival Chelsea for the services of Leon Bailey during the summer but only on the provision that they sell Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang,

Bailey looks set to leave Bayer Leverkusen during the summer with Chelsea preparing a move for the player valued at £85 million.

Arsenal are keen on the Jamaican trickster but would almost certainly have to cash in on Aubameyang to enter the race.

(Photo by Etienne Zegers/Soccrates/Getty Images)

The Gabonese striker is the only player in the Arsenal ranks who would raise substantial cash, with the Gunners valuing him at

Arsenal won’t want to lose Aubameyang but with him out of contract in 2021 they may need to cash in to avoid losing him for free next year.

Bailey has been in good form for Leverkusen this season. He has netted seven goals and registered one assist during 22 appearances.

At 22 there is plenty of room for development in Bailey’s game and he could be a useful asset to the Arsenal team.

He typically operates as a left-winger, although he can play on the right or as a striker making him a versatile option for Mikel Arteta to consider.

If Arsenal fail to secure Champions League football this season, it seems likely some players will leave.

Aubameyang has made no secret of his desire to play in the Champions League and a sale could be inevitable.

(Photo by Harriet Lander/Copa/Getty Images)

If he does go a replacement would need to be sought and Bailey could be a shrewd addition.

He is young, determined and would probably fit in with Arteta’s hardworking style of play.

At £85 million he wouldn’t come cheap; although as an investment for many years he could still be deemed value for money.

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