European giants Bayern Munich are ready to start a potential bidding war for Leeds United star Archie Gray, according to HITC.
Daniel Farke’s side were condemned to another season of Championship football at the weekend when they suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Southampton in the play-off final. It’s a result which could have serious repercussions on their playing squad, with rumours that the club may need to sell a number of their first team stars.
Failure to secure promotion means the Whites are set to take a significant financial hit, meaning they may need to generate funds from their playing squad. Some also harbour ambitions of playing at a higher level, having opted to remain at the club following their relegation from the Premier League last year.
Top scorer Crysencio Summerville is one name attracting a lot of interest. The winger contributed 21 goals and 10 assists in all competitions this season and is said to have caught the eye of the likes of Aston Villa, Liverpool and Newcastle United. Having signed for just £1.25 million in 2020, Leeds are hoping to make a huge profit and have placed a £45 million price tag on the Dutchman’s head.
Another who will garner interest this summer is starlet Archie Gray. The 18-year-old only made his professional debut on the opening day of the campaign but has since gone on to become an ever-present for the Yorkshire outfit. Subject to constant speculation throughout the January transfer window, he committed his future to the club by signing a new four-year deal.
The versatile youngster, who is capable of playing at right-back and an array of positions across the midfield, is thought to be happy with life at Elland Road. However, several teams are expected to try their luck.
It is claimed that Vincent Kompany is keen to bring Gray to the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, with the Bavarian’s having kept a close eye on his progress throughout the season. They could be joined by a number of Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United.
Reports last year stated that the England under-21 international would cost upwards of £40 million.
Writer’s View
This is a difficult one to predict. Despite Leeds needing to sell this summer, Archie Gray is one player they will be hoping to keep hold of. Their plight will be made easier by the fact the player seems to have his head screwed on and is in no rush to make a move.
Of course, it helps that several of his family members have represented the club, but he is also clearly well advised. Having won the Championship Young Player of the Year, he could be the man that Daniel Farke builds his team around next season. The Premier League is an attainable ambition with the Whites, but the pull of Bayern may be too much of a lure to turn down.
