Leeds United could give themselves a better chance of retaining Archie Gray if they are promoted to the Premier League, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein.
This season, the 17-year-old has been a standout for the Whites, playing both right defence and central midfield.
Given that he isn’t a right-back by nature, Gray’s performances there have been especially noteworthy, and it is clear that people have taken notice of him because there have already been rumours about his leaving Elland Road.
That just serves to highlight the significant influence he has had on Daniel Farke’s team this season. Prior to this campaign, he didn’t play much at the senior level, but he has established himself as a consistent starter.
This season, the teenager has even managed to find the scoresheet. In fact, last month, he scored against Leicester City to guarantee that the Whites maintained their lead over Ipswich Town and to cut the distance between the two teams to just six points.
David Ornstein on Archie Gray’s Leeds United future
Leeds might end up being the victims of their own success with Grey, as if he can keep up his impressive play, interest in him will probably grow in the upcoming months.
Two things, nevertheless, are currently in the Whites’ favour.
First of all, he recently inked a new deal that would keep him at Elland Road through the summer of 2028. Secondly, he is said to believe that Elland Road is the greatest place for him to be right now.
In response to a question and answer session for The Athletic, Ornstein stated another aspect that would aid Leeds in keeping Grey. “I would be more surprised if there wasn’t interest but this doesn’t mean he will leave,” he wrote.
“At the age of 17, he recently inked a new contract and might decide to stay even if there were better offers.
“The financial situation at Leeds (like Leicester, for example) means promotion back to the Premier League is vitally important and I assume that would preclude the need to contemplate selling the likes of Gray.
“If that aim is not achieved then, of course, the vultures are expected to circle and some tough decisions will need to be made.”
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