Genk star Leon Bailey responds to reported Man Utd interest
By Michael Kelleher
Last Updated: 23/11/16 8:56am
Genk’s teenage sensation Leon Bailey has warned Manchester United he would only consider moving to Old Trafford if he is guaranteed first-team action.
The 19-year-old Jamaican, who also qualifies to play for Belgium, has reportedly been watched by United's scouts this season.
Bailey, who primarily plays on the left wing for Genk but is also comfortable on the right flank, has scored six times in 18 league games this season.
Bailey admits his dream is to play in the Premier League but he will not consider a move unless he can get the playing time he needs to continue his development.
"I've always dreamt of the Premier League," Bailey said, in an interview with HLN Sport. "But if, let's say, Man United can't guarantee me minutes, I will stay at Genk.
"The important thing is that in the near future there a lot of games to come. This is essential for me because I have to take more steps. I've already made a lot of progress.
"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."
Bailey was nominated for the UEFA Golden Boy award in October alongside United striker Marcus Rashford, France winger Kingsley Coman and Bayern Munich midfielder Renato Sanches, the eventual winner.
He is one of two highly-rated teenagers at Genk who are drawing interest from big European clubs, along with 19-year-old Nigerian international defender Wilfred Ndidi, and the club have indicated they could be tempted to sell the pair in January.
Earlier this week, Genk's technical director Dimitri De Conde said: "There is a high demand for these players. If a big offer comes, it will be difficult to keep them.
"They said they wanted to stay in Genk this season, but we must also listen. If a sufficient offer arrives and the player wants to leave, then we must prepare for it."
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