Chelsea step up Leon Bailey bid

The 20-year-old is being tracked by a number of Premier League clubs after an eye-catching season in the Bundesliga, where the Jamaica-born winger scored nine times in 30 appearances.

Manchester City had been keen on Bailey with Pep Guardiola valuing the youngster’s ability to play anywhere across the attack. However, City are closing in on a deal for Leicester City star Riyad Mahrez and are unlikely to pursue a move for Bailey this summer.

That has created a window of opportunity for Chelsea it is understood that the club’s interest in Bailey has increased dramatically in recent weeks.

Bailey was spotted in London last week, fuelling speculation that he could be set for a move to the Premier League.

The winger is believed to be keen on a move to England but Premier League clubs face competition from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid for his signature.

Leverkusen would rather sell abroad rather than strengthen a direct rival and value Bailey at a hefty £70million.