Leeds United expect midfielder Archie Gray to sign a new contract despite recent transfer interest from Premier League and European clubs, according to Peter O’Rourke at Football Insider.
Gray has been monitored by Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle and Crystal Palace, while Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund have also shown interest in signing the 17-year-old.
However, the highly-rated midfielder is expected to pledge his future to Leeds United by entering imminent contract negotiations.
As a result, Football Insider has also reported that the Whites’ hierarchy are “confident” their young starlet will continue to represent the Yorkshire club for the foreseeable future.
Gray has been a key figure in the Leeds midfield this season after making 15 Championship appearances, including 13 starts, as the former Premier League side have climbed up to third in the table recently. The talented teenager has been patient whilst waiting for his chance to break into the Leeds first team this season under Daniel Farke.
Gray joined Leeds at under-9 level and has risen through the youth ranks at Elland Road. The England youth international got his first taste of first-team action when he was named on the bench in a Premier League match against Arsenal at 16, but he failed to make a top-flight appearance.
However, the Whites’ relegation to the Championship has given the 17-year-old a platform to receive more game time and in order to showcase his talents. In addition, Gray has displayed his adaptability by operating in the central midfield role and filling in at right back on occasion.
Ultimately, the youngster’s potential has caught the eye of elite-level clubs who are eager to land the exciting prospect – currently valued at around £6 million, according to Transfermarkt.
Despite recent contract developments, the midfielder still has 18 months left on his existing deal and any new contract would see his market value rise even further – potentially repelling any interest from the Premier League.
Writer’s View
Gray has been unfazed by his promotion to senior football this season and his proven ability is clearly attractive to Premier League and European giants.
However, the latest contract news is evidence that the midfielder possibly sees Leeds as the perfect place to develop, with more game time likely to come in the Championship.
