Paul Lambert has compared Archie Gray, a Leeds United youngster, to Real Madrid legend Jude Bellingham.
The former Ipswich Town boss has stated that the 18-year-old would benefit from leaving Elland Road.
Lambert told the Mirror (page 67, May 31): “I saw Archie Gray play for Leeds at Leicester earlier this season and thought, ‘Wow, this boy’s some player.'”
“Then I saw Leeds beat Norwich 4-0 in the play-off semi-finals and thought, ‘You’d be fantastic for Dortmund at your age.'”
“Jude is now a global sensation at Real Madrid, but his time at Borussia Dortmund provided the foundation for that. He thrived at Dortmund; look at him now.”
Will Archie Gray leave Leeds United’s Daniel Farke regime?
Lambert knows what it takes to play for Dortmund.
The 54-year-old won the UEFA Champions League with the German club in 1997, defeating Juventus 3-1 in the final.
And for Gray, it could be the ideal move.
While many supporters may claim that he is too young and unprepared for such a transition, Bellingham’s experience with the club suggests otherwise.
The England international is only 20 years old but has already established himself as one of the world’s most recognizable players.
He rose to fame following a string of outstanding Bundesliga games for Dortmund.
And with Gray turning 19 midway through next season, there’s no reason the midfielder can’t do something similar.
Of course, Elland Road supporters will hope to keep Gray.
However, if the club is forced to sell to alleviate financial difficulties, the fee Gray might command would undoubtedly assist.
