Bailey: 'We can achieve a lot with this young team'
Leon Bailey says his belief in Bayer Leverkusen's young team played a part in his decision to sign a new deal.
Bayer Leverkusen star Leon Bailey has been linked with some of Europe's biggest club's over the summer, but has today put the rumors to bed by signing a contract extension until 2023 with 'Die Werkself'.
After putting pen to paper on the new deal, Bailey said that he thrives in Leverkusen and that he feels that the young team could achieve something big in the future.
"I have always emphasized how well I feel here in Leverkusen and with the team. This contract extension is a sign of appreciation for the club," Bailey is quoted by the club as saying.
"My goal is to repay the trust I've been given with good performances and to constantly develop. We can achieve a lot with this young team," the winger added.
Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Jonas Boldt admits that Bailey has been flattered by the interest in him from other clubs, but that the 21-year-old ultimately decided that staying at the BayArena is best for his development.
"Over the past weeks and months there have been constant rumours about Leon’s future. The player has obviously been flattered to be sought after by one or two of the big clubs. However: He really feels at home at Leverkusen, he is very professional in his approach and he knows Bayer 04 is a very good club where he can continue to develop. That’s why we agreed to extend his contract early," Boldt said after the contract extension.
Last season, Bailey made 34 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen with 12 goals and six assists to his name.