Aston Villa star Leon Bailey has all but ruled out a move to Chelsea after claiming that he doesn't want 'to go and live in London'. The 25-year-old was first linked with move to Stamford Bridge earlier this month after Christian Pulisic looked set to leave in January.
According to the Daily Mail, the Blues are set to make an approach for Bailey in the event that the United States international leaves the club. Chelsea are said to be anticipating Pulisic's exit after the winger informed the club that he wants regular first-team football.
He fell out of favour under former head coach Thomas Tuchel and he looked set for a new lease of life under new boss Graham Potter. But, even under new management, the American has struggled to nail down a place in the Chelsea side.
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The report adds that Chelsea have been monitoring Bailey for some time now. But, while the Jamaica international may be an option in January, he's handed the Blues a huge setback in the race to acquire his services after opening up on the prospect of living in London.
Speaking on the Let’s Be Honest podcast, Bailey said: "Aston Villa, top facility, a big club with a big history, fanbase… right city where it is because, as a professional, I take things one step at a time.
"You don’t want to go and live in London. The London lifestyle is fast. You can be distracted, easily, because every day there’s something to do.
"Then you have the top of the top people in London and, because you have money, you always feel like you need to do something and meet friends, go out and party and get caught in the wrong company. I didn't want that for myself. So, as I say, you have to take things a step at a time."
Bailey, who sees his deal at Villa Park expire in 2025, joined the west Midlands-based side for £25million last summer. He is now valued at £20million (£17.4million) by CIES Football Observatory.
Chelsea may not have to advance their interest in the Jamaican anyway. Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports has reported that Pulisic wants to stay at Stamford Bridge this winter.
But, the possibility of a move away from Chelsea is reportedly not null and void. The report adds that, while an exit in 'unlikely', talks regarding a move could take place if Pulisic were to 'receive a great and interesting offer' after the World Cup.
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