Genk starlet Leon Bailey has warned Manchester United that he will not move to Old Trafford just to sit on the bench after being linked with a move.
The 19-year-old has scored eight goals in 25 appearances in all competitions so far this season as he has continued to attract attention from around Europe with his form.
While his versatility has also seen him stand out given his ability to play on either flank, he is adamant that although his dream is to play in the Premier League, he will only make a move that makes sense for his career in order to avoid seeing his playing time and progress stunted.
“I’ve always dreamt of the Premier League,” Bailey told HLN Sport. “But if, let’s say, Man United can’t guarantee me minutes, I will stay at Genk.
“When I go, where I go? That is a matter for my management. From the moment that there is something concrete, we’ll sit down at the table.”
According to the report, Ajax and Paris Saint-Germain have also shown an interest in Bailey, and so United will face competition if they have a desire to take him to England.
It’s bad news for Genk as they will arguably have a tough time in fending off the reported interest if the teenager continues to impress, and they may well opt to cash in when a big-money offer arrives.
Nevertheless, Bailey deserves credit for taking the stance he has as ultimately at 19, it would have been easy for him to welcome interest from a massive club like United and want to make the move immediately.
In contrast, he wants to make the smartest move for his continued development, and although that might mean passing up an opportunity to move to England now, he’ll hope to confirm his talent and ensure that the interest doesn’t disappear any time soon.