Archie Gray ‘frustration’ emerges at Leeds United as changes galore ready
Paul Robinson understands frustration following the sale of Archie Gray but expects more to come during a “summer of changes” at Leeds United.
The 18-year-old has joined Tottenham in a £30million deal this summer, with defender Joe Rodon returning to Elland Road in the opposite direction in a deal worth around £10million [BBC Sport].
Gray is just the first of many players at the club linked with a move away this summer, with Crysencio Summerville, Georginio Rutter, Wilfried Gnonto and Glen Kamara all potentially on their way out.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said: “It was a very good price for Archie Gray. You understand the sale. You don’t want it but you certainly understand why it has been sanctioned – £30million to £40million is a good deal.
“From the fans’ point of view, you can also understand the frustration. They don’t want to see another academy starlet gone. But the academy is there to support the club, as well as the first team. The lower down the leagues you go, the sale of one or two players can fund a club for one or two months.
“If you’re in the Championship and you have an academy star like Archie Gray, with FFP and PSR now, you can understand why the sale came now. Would I have wanted him to stay an extra season? Absolutely.
“It’s going to be a summer of changes at Elland Road, and the quicker that is over, the better. The deal has been done at a time that allows the manager time to assess his squad. He’s gone with a heavy heart but most will understand why he’s had to go.
“The Joe Rodon part of the deal will have softened the blow a little, but in an ideal world, you wouldn’t have wanted to see him go.”
Leeds United must prepare for changes after Archie Gray
While Leeds’ financial struggles have been alleviated by Red Bull’s investment, the club are still stuck in the Championship for a second season, which is not a positive sign for any transfers.
Farke and his squad were inches from claiming promotion to the Premier League last term, narrowly missing out on automatic promotion to Ipswich before losing the play-off final to Southampton.
Therefore, it comes as no surprise to see some of the best performers linked with moves to Europe and the top tier of English football, though Farke will be hoping to keep as many key players as possible.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites’ transfer priority has emerged following developments at Elland Road.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.