Tottenham have completed the signing of teenager Archie Gray from “heartbroken” Leeds United.
The 18-year-old has signed a six-year deal at Spurs after they met a release clause that was triggered by Leeds’ failure to win promotion back to the Premier League last season.
Gray, who sat on the bench for Leeds aged 15 against Arsenal, made his debut at 17 and has gone on to become one of the brightest prospects in English football, capable of playing at right-back or in midfield.
Leeds were eager to keep him – the name Gray is synonymous with the Elland Road club with his father Andy, grandfather Frank and great uncle Eddie all former players – and accept fans will not be happy at losing a homegrown talent.
📰 Heartbroken to see one of our own depart, Archie Gray leaves with the best wishes of everyone at #LUFC, as he joins Tottenham
— Leeds United (@LUFC) July 2, 2024
Announcing the move on the club’s official website, the club said: “Understanding the attraction of Premier League and European football, the club, with a heavy heart, agreed the transfer, but the move has strengthened the board’s resolve to ultimately return Leeds to a position where it can meet the footballing ambitions of even its brightest stars.
“Whilst we understand that supporters will be hugely disappointed to lose such a home-grown talent, and a family name so synonymous with Leeds United, the move improves the club’s chance to compete for automatic promotion next season by increasing our ability to build a competitive squad within the league’s financial control regulations.
“Everyone at Leeds United is heartbroken to see one of our own depart and would like to thank Archie for all his efforts and professionalism. He leaves with the very best wishes for his future career and in the knowledge that Leeds will always be his home.”
The fee for Gray is believed to be in the region of £30million with centre-half Joe Rodon moving in the opposite direction for £10m. Rodon played alongside Gray as Leeds reached the Championship play-off final in May but lost to Southampton.
