Bayer Leverkusen winger Leon Bailey has revealed he rejected the chance to join Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City.
The coveted winger has been the transfer hotshot over the last few years and has attracted attention all over the world. Clubs were lining up for his service but the 21 year old decided to remain at the German club as he felt a move at this time of the career could be a hindrance to his development.
The Jamaican international lit up the Bundesliga last season as defenders failed to match with his marauding runs down the flanks. But this season he has not been able to replicate his form as he has found the net only once in the first 10 games.
Bailey said, “Chelsea have been interested in me since I was maybe 14 or 15, but as a young player you want to start on a normal level and not just go there because of the name of the club.
“You want to develop in the right environment; around the right minds and mentality. Genk was right for me at that moment – I fitted right into the youth system perfectly. That’s where I wanted to start, so I went for it.”
“Manchester United, City, Chelsea, Liverpool – a lot of clubs were interested,”
“But the most important thing as a pro is taking things a step at a time and not rushing to the top too quickly. Because once you get there, where do you go next?
“I believe the right timing is important, and it was the right moment to be at Bayer Leverkusen. They are a tremendous club with so much history. A lot of good players have come from there; they can get into the Champions League and are always doing well. So why not them? It was the perfect move for me and I’m happy I made it.”
