Eric Bailly is attracting renewed attention on the transfer market as the Ivorian centre-back prepares to become a free agent on July 1, following Villarreal’s decision not to renew his contract.
With his availability not tied to a transfer fee, several clubs have shown early interest in the 31-year-old defender, whose experience across Europe’s top leagues and international success make him an appealing option.
Chief among the suitors is Espanyol, the very club where Bailly began his footballing journey.
Sources close to the matter suggest Espanyol are eager to reinforce their backline ahead of the new campaign, and Bailly’s name has resurfaced as a compelling candidate.
The Ivorian spent his formative years with the Catalan side, joining their youth ranks at just 11 years old before signing his first professional contract and eventually earning a move to Villarreal.
However, while the sentimental value of a return is not lost on either party, salary negotiations could prove to be a stumbling block.
Espanyol, now working with a tighter wage structure, may not be able to meet Bailly’s current demands unless he agrees to a significant pay reduction.
Beyond Spain, interest has also emerged from Turkey.
Trabzonspor are reportedly monitoring the situation closely and could formalize their interest in the coming days.
The Turkish giants, who are known to target experienced European talent, view Bailly as a solid addition to their defensive unit.
A veteran of the international stage, Bailly’s résumé includes over 50 caps for Côte d’Ivoire, an Africa Cup of Nations title, and a Europa League triumph during his time at Manchester United.
His market value currently stands at €2 million, according to Transfermarkt, though his status as a free agent could spark a bidding war over wages and bonuses.
No official offers have yet been tabled, but momentum is expected to build as pre-season preparations across Europe begin.
For Bailly, who endured a challenging spell at Villarreal last season, the next move could prove pivotal in reigniting his career at club level.
Negotiations remain in the early stages, but with two notable suitors already on alert, the coming weeks will likely determine where the next chapter of Eric Bailly’s career unfolds.
