European giants Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are the latest clubs to add their names to the ever-growing list of admirers of Leeds United teenager Archie Gray, according to HITC.
The 18-year-old is currently enjoying his breakthrough season at Elland Road. He has become an ever-present in Daniel Farke’s side, making 43 appearances in all competitions.
Only making his debut on the opening day of this season, his form soon caught the attention of a number of Premier League clubs. The likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Newcastle United and Manchester United have all been linked to the versatile youngster, who is comfortable operating both in midfield and at right-back.
With interest beginning to mount, the Yorkshire-based outfit acted swiftly to tie their latest star down to a long-term deal, announcing a new four-year contract in January. Soon after, he earned his first call-up to the England under-21 squad, scoring on his debut against Azerbaijan in March.
Leeds are braced for clubs to make their interest concrete in the summer, although are expected to remain steadfast in their view that the third generation star is not for sale. Despite that, offers of £50 million and above could materialise in what could spark a bidding war.
The arrival of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich to the table isn’t the news that Farke will have wanted. English talent has become more attractive in recent years following the success of the National team. Both clubs have also spent big to secure the best the country has to offer over the course of the past year, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane joining each club respectively.
After earning a hard-fought 3-1 win over Hull City last night, top tier football could soon return to the three-time English champions. It’s a result which kept them second in the Championship, one point above Leicester City in third. However, the Foxes do possess a game in hand.
Writer’s View
Gray will be in no rush to leave his boyhood club and he will be keen to try his luck in the Premier League at Elland Road. Promotion this season won’t be imperative when it comes to keeping the youngster, but it will of course play a role.
He is a player who looks destined to play at the very top and both Bayern and Real Madrid will be attractive options if they both make a move. Leeds would be confident of keeping the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool at bay should they come calling, but when it comes to the European heavyweights, it could be a different proposition altogether.
Head of Writing
