AS Roma have secured the services of Jamaican winger Leon Bailey on a season-long loan from Aston Villa, with an option to make the transfer permanent. The deal was formally announced by the Italian club on 20 August 2025 and represents a fresh opportunity for both player and club alike.
Bailey, 28, becomes the first Jamaican footballer in Roma’s history—a detail not lost on the club or its fans. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Bailey made his way to Europe at age 13 and developed through youth and professional ranks across multiple countries.
His CV includes spells at Genk—where he earned the Belgian Young Footballer of the Year award—then Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, and most recently Premier League outfit Aston Villa.
Roma’s official statement heralded the arrival: “AS Roma are delighted to announce the signing of Leon Bailey from Aston Villa. The winger joins the club on loan with an option to buy. The 28-year-old has made 377 appearances in domestic and international league competitions, racking up 76 goals. Bailey has chosen to wear the number 31 shirt. Welcome to Roma, Leon!”
Despite his early promise and flashes of brilliance, Bailey’s most recent season at Aston Villa was marked by inconsistency. He made 110 Premier League appearances for Villa—netting 16 goals and providing 17 assists—but struggled for regular game time during the latter stages of the 2024–25 campaign due to injury setbacks.
Nonetheless, his 2023–24 season stood out: he scored 10 goals and assisted another nine, playing a crucial role as Villa secured Champions League qualification.
Financial terms disclosed in various reports place the loan fee in the region of €2–3 million, with the option to buy estimated between €20–23 million. Roma’s ability to structure acquisition deals on a loan-to-buy basis reflects both a cautious financial approach and intent to assess fit before committing fully.
Bailey’s arrival in Rome was met with warmth. Upon landing, he was greeted by a crowd of enthusiastic Roma supporters at the airport, chanting and eager to witness their new signing. In a spirited moment, Bailey responded: “Forza Roma!”
The player’s agent, Craig Butler, had already hinted at the seriousness of Roma’s proposal. “Roma is a beautiful club and city, so any opportunity that comes from them has to be taken seriously and considered,” Butler told The Gleaner in advance of the deal.