It is better for the sport to have the best players in the world play in the Premier League at the club level. If not in the EPL, then staying in Europe is what currently benefits everyone the most. There are certainly always going to be exceptions. Offers from the Saudi League or MLS can also become somewhat difficult for the involved parties to turn down.
When someone like Leon Bailey is still able to play at a high level and is far from retirement, however, it is better to see someone like him look to avoid a move to an entirely different continent.
That is what has been reported by Sky Sport's Sacha Tavolieri. While Bailey is aware and understands Villa's potential need to sell players in order to remain under the PSR guidelines, he is looking to stay in the Prem or one of the top leagues in Europe.
It is this approach that will serve him well, regardless of what becomes the future of his career. Wanting to stay in the most competitive environment and looking to continue to prove himself among the best in the world is a trait that many do not possess.
Strangely enough, it is this type of stance that should endear him further to Villa supporters. Bailey had a year that saw him suffer injury setbacks. How the winger looked in the 2023-2024 season, though, cannot be discarded.
That player that dazzled at Villa Park is still present. A full preseason and steady, more consistent role in a side will allow the Jamaica international to once again show his quality. While it may not be at Villa, his going to a team outside of the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, or Ligue 1 would be an overall disservice to him and fans of the sport in general.
Prior Aston Villa season was tremendous for Bailey
Even so, there is a real business aspect that Villa has to consider. The report noted that Bailey would be a little more willing and open to a potential Saudi League move if it came as a result of the club's efforts to stay beneath the PSR threshold.
At this point, there is not anything concrete confirmed or even in talks. Regardless, the best matches and moments from Bailey will always be appreciated and stick in the minds of Villa supporters.