Tottenham Hotspur has struck a significant blow in the summer transfer market, agreeing to a £40million fee for Leeds United’s highly coveted youngster Archie Gray.
The 18-year-old England Under-21 player, who excelled in the Championship last season, is expected to sign a long-term deal with the north London club, dealing a significant blow to Premier League rivals Liverpool and Brentford.
Gray’s impending move to Tottenham has far-reaching implications, scuppering Brentford’s attempts to sign the talented teenager and potentially disrupting Liverpool’s plans to sign another Leeds star, Crysencio Summerville.
The Dutch Under-21 international, who scored 21 goals last season and was named Championship Player of the Season, is highly regarded by new Liverpool boss Arne Slot.
However, the sale of Gray to Tottenham is set to ease Leeds United’s concerns over profit and sustainability rules, allowing them to retain Summerville and potentially blocking Liverpool’s move for the player.
This development comes as a significant setback for Liverpool, who are yet to make their first summer signing under Slot, and are facing the potential loss of Luis Diaz to Barcelona.
The move is a testament to Tottenham’s transfer market prowess, as they continue to strengthen their squad under Daniel Levy’s guidance. Meanwhile, Leeds United, who missed out on promotion last season, will be expected to challenge strongly for a return to the Premier League in 2024/25, with Summerville playing a key role in their campaign.
The Dutch international has expressed his desire to help Leeds achieve Champions League football, and his retention is a significant boost to their ambitions.