What Archie Gray’s sale means for Leeds United and concerns over Profit and Sustainability rules

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Archie Gray is nearing a move to Brentford from Leeds United in a move that is likely to anger fans of the Yorkshire club, but what does it mean in terms of Profit & Sustainability Rules?

The 18-year-old talent starred for Leeds after making his debut on the opening day of the season against Cardiff City. A brilliant season followed, seeing Gray play more than 50 times and win England U21 caps.

Of course, at the age of 18, that was always going to attract interest. But with Gray signing a new long-term deal in January and that he gave no indication of leaving, Leeds fans were confident he would stay.

But of course, that has all changed on Saturday evening with Brentford now closing in on a deal believed to be worth £40m to sign the Leeds talent. A medical was done last night as Gray edges close to an exit.

• READ MORE: Illan Meslier looks more than likely to leave Leeds in the coming weeks

The situation surrounding Leeds and Profit & Sustainability rules

Initially, reports said Leeds owed £190m in player transfers. That figure has since been reduced largely due to sales of Luis Sinisterra, Tyler Adams and second-season parachute payments received by the club.

That and of course, RedBull’s investment into the club and subsequent shirt sponsorship. Other players are also leaving the club, with Marc Roca set to be joined by Charlie Cresswell in leaving permanently.

But what does Gray’s exit mean for Leeds? Does it mean Leeds are now in a good place to comply with the rules come July 1? Do Leeds need to sell players like Crysencio Summerville and Willy Gnonto?

What Ben Jacobs has said about the impact of Gray’s exit on PSR

The widely-renowned transfer expert has taken to his own X account to inform Leeds fans that despite the initial reports of £190m owed in transfers, Leeds needed to raise less than £100m to comply with PSR.

The sales of Adams and Sinisterra and the investment made by Red Bull means Leeds were confident of not breaking the rules, so long as they made one big-name sale by July 1 and that looks to be Gray.

Jacobs said, amid reports Gray is set to go: “A Gray sale will allay Leeds’ PSR concerns. They don’t need anywhere near £100m. Should Gray depart, Leeds are satisfied they will comply with the financial rules.

“It puts them in a stronger position should offers come in for Summerville. Red Bull investment, and the sales of Adams and Sinisterra will all reflect on the next set of accounts. Coupled with a Gray sale, Leeds are confident they won’t suffer any breaches.”