Archie Gray is happy to stay at Leeds United, but the club has made it clear that he must be sold to Brentford, according to Ben Jacobs.
The broadcaster stated via X on Saturday (29 June) that, while the midfielder is willing to stay at Elland Road this summer and has not been forced to leave, the terms provided by the Bees are too excellent to pass up.
Gray is due to undertake a physical with Thomas Frank’s side, who have outbid many Premier League clubs for his services after agreeing a £35 million transfer fee for the 18-year-old [David Ornstein, 29 June].
Has Archie Gray left Leeds United amid reports about a move to Brentford?
Despite widespread rumors throughout the season linking Gray to a number of Premier League clubs, sources have consistently claimed that the teenager was more than willing to stay at Elland Road.
Daniel Farke has given the 18-year-old a consistent position in the Whites starting lineup week after week. Although the Premier League is attractive, Gray will not be guaranteed to play first-team action every week.
When combined with his family links to the club, it’s not surprising that the midfielder wants to stay this summer. Unfortunately, Championship clubs are not typically able to refuse £35 million payments.
Gray would have had no chance of returning to the Premier League if Leeds United had earned promotion automatically or through the playoffs. The Wembley defeat to Southampton has been costly in more ways than one.
Whether or not this deal is finalized or a late hijack occurs, it appears like we’ve seen the last of the teenager in a Leeds shirt, at least for now.
