Leeds United is determined to retain their teenage prodigy Archie Gray, a highly regarded player in their youth set-up at Thorpe Arch.
Gray made a significant impact this season, playing a vital role in the team’s successes with 52 appearances across all competitions. His versatility was a valuable asset to Daniel Farke’s squad, playing across midfield and most prominently at right back.
Born in 2006, Gray’s passion for the club was evident in his celebrations in front of the home fans when he scored his only goal of the season against eventual champions Leicester City. Despite committing his long-term future to the club with a contract extension until June 2028 in January, Leeds’ financial situation puts Gray’s future in doubt.
The club has spent £170m on incoming transfers in recent seasons, including the likes of Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen, Marc Roca, and Max Wober, leaving them needing to balance the books.
Championship Player of the Season Crysensio Summerville is likely to be sold to help reinvest, with Bundesliga winners Bayer Leverkusen reportedly readying a £17m bid for the winger.
Unlike Summerville, Leeds United runs through Archie Gray’s blood, with his dad, grandad, and legendary great uncle all having played for the Whites. It would be a bitter pill for fans to swallow, watching a homegrown star flee the nest so early in his career, but it could be a crucial move for the greater good of the club.
Reports suggest that Gray is in demand by some of the country’s most prestigious clubs, including Liverpool, Arsenal, West Ham, Brighton, Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich. If Leeds signals they are ready to consider a sale, there would likely be a stampede for his signature.
Leeds’ priority is to have Gray helping them escape the Championship next season. If he can emulate some of the performances of the year just gone, his value will increase as he gains notoriety and experience on the pitch. While Summerville’s future may belong elsewhere after a brilliant 2023/24 campaign, Leeds will be praying Gray doesn’t follow him out the door at Elland Road.