‘Almighty backlash’ – Journalist says Spurs unlikely to sign young star – The Spurs Web

Journalist Beren Cross has said Tottenham Hotspur will find it extremely difficult to get their hands on Archie Gray this summer, insisting there will be a major backlash from Leeds fans if the right-back is sold.

Tottenham are keeping an eye on Archie Gray

It is well documented that Spurs are looking for a right-back to replace Emerson Royal, who is expected to leave the club this summer, with Gray being discussed as a target for the Lilywhites.

Football.London’s Alasdair Gold said last week that the Leeds Academy graduate is seen as a natural fit for the inverted full-back role in Ange Postecoglou’s system.

However, he was one of many reporters to suggest that the youngster is not desperate to leave Elland Road this summer and is prepared to play another year of regular Championship football before making a big move.

Athletic even claimed a few days ago that Gray had been on Tottenham’s radar for a long time, with the north London club reportedly exploring a move for the youngster before he signed his first professional contract in March last year.

However, Cross has now stated that despite Leeds’ financial problems, Gray is not a player they want to cash in this summer as the right-back’s value will only increase over the next 12 months.

Leeds are unlikely to sell Archie Gray this summer

Asked about Tottenham’s pursuit of the teenager, the journalist told Football.London: “Archie Gray is one of the other players who came out of last season with a high profile. The 18-year-old was named Young Player of the Season. You can see the trend.

“The difference with Gray is his age and his importance to the fan base. His name is iconic in Leeds circles as Frank’s grandson and Eddie’s great-grandson and as a product of the academy he bleeds white.

“While the supporters understand that money needs to be raised this summer, they prefer to sell every player in the squad before parting ways with Gray.

“While (Crysencio) Summerville’s aspirations and trajectory are accepted, at 18, there is a belief that Gray can have several years with his boyhood club to develop before flying the nest.

“There is no denying that Gray can become a generational talent in England. Gareth Southgate has already started talking about him after a full season of senior football.

“Any fee raised for him this summer could be doubled in another two years if Leeds can hold out. Marathe and the board know they will face an almighty backlash if Gray is sold this summer.”

Spurs Web Opinion

It looks like it will take a mammoth bid of around £40-50m for Tottenham to convince Leeds to part with Gray.

Even if the Lilywhites are convinced of the 18-year-old’s potential, that’s a big price to pay for a back-up right-back and someone who lacks top-flight experience.

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