TOTTENHAM have completed the signing of Leeds whizkid Archie Gray.
The 18-year-old joins for a fee worth up to £30million, with centre-back Joe Rodon heading to Elland Road as part of the deal.
It's official!
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 2, 2024pic.twitter.com/rAFGakSf5D
Brentford had looked set to sign the England Under-21 international over the weekend but a deal fell through.
That allowed long-term admirers Spurs to swoop in and seal a move for one of the most highly-rated young players in the country.
He made 47 appearances in the Championship last season and earned many plaudits for his performances.
Gray managed to provide two assists during this time but did not score a goal.
He becomes the North Londoners’ third signing of the summer, following the arrival of Swedish wonderkid Lucas Bergvall and the re-loaning of Timo Werner.
Gray has signed a long-term contract with Spurs that will run until 2030.
He will wear the number 14 shirt for the club and can also play as a right-back.
It’s also been confirmed that Rodon is heading in the other direction.
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Rodon, 26, spent last season on loan at Leeds and has now joined permanently as part of the switch.
The defender became a crucial piece of the team’s backline that just missed out on promotion back to the Premier League.
He joined Spurs back in 2020 but only made 15 league appearances for the club.
He spent the 2022/23 season out on loan at Stade Rennes in France.
Rodon has signed a contract at Elland Road that will run until 2028.
Leeds released an emotional statement following the completion of Gray’s exit.
It read: “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.”
Fan reaction
Gray is the great-nephew of Scotland and Leeds legend Eddie Gray.
Spurs fans are thrilled by Gray’s arrival as they reacted to the news on social media.
One posted: “Incredible talent Archie Gray.”
A second wrote: “What a signing for Spurs.”
A third commented: “Smart moves! Looks like Leeds and Spurs are playing 4D chess.”
Another added: “£25m + who?? Omg what a deal.”
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