Carlton Palmer says Archie Gray has told Leeds United that he wants to stay put at Elland Road and continue his development under Daniel Farke, amid reports Premier League clubs are interested.
Gray, 17, has been sensational for Leeds this season, after breaking into the side under Farke. It comes after coming close to a first-team debut under Jesse Marsch, only to suffer an injury last pre-season.
The Leeds academy product has started 15 of our 18 games in all competitions, while also going up the ranks in the England set-up. Winning three England U19 caps, and then this month, with the U20’s.
A report from 90Min recently said that Manchester City, Newcastle, Chelsea, Tottenham, Liverpool and Arsenal are all keeping tabs on Gray. Dortmund, too. His contract at Leeds is due to expire in 2025.
But Leeds cannot extend his deal until he turns 18, in March. Speaking to Football League World, Palmer says that Gray has given Leeds the indication that he wants to stay – and develop under manager Farke.
“But in a massive boost for the club in their quest to reclaim their Premier League status once again, Gray has given the club the indication that he’s happy where he is,” Palmer said, discussing Gray.
“He wants to continue his footballing education at Leeds United under Daniel Farke. This is great news for the manager, the club, the supporters,” Palmer added, in an interview with Football League World.
Carlton Palmer says Archie Gray has told Leeds he wants to stay
If this is the case, it was expected – but as Palmer says, it is also great news. Ex-Leeds defender Aidy White says he recently spoke to Gray’s Father, Andy – who also played for Leeds – about his future.
He says that Andy told him Archie is keen to just continue developing. The lure of the Premier League clubs interested will be tempting. So, it might be that Leeds need Premier League football to keep him.
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