Pundit issues transfer verdict on Leeds United midfielder Archie Gray amid Liverpool interest
Carlton Palmer has issued a verdict on Liverpool’s interest in Leeds United midfielder Archie Gray ahead of the January transfer window.
The pundit believes that the Whites are doing the right thing by standing to their guns and not selling the 17-year-old despite a Premier League side showing interest.
He’s also mooted a £40million transfer fee for the Englishman who’s doing well this season in the Championship.
He said to Football League World: “Leeds have issued the stance that they have no intention of selling their talented youngster Archie Gray in what is his breakout season.
“Whilst the club are unlikely to stand in the way of Gray should he receive a huge offer like £40million from Liverpool, they have no intention of selling him.
“There’s also been no indication from the player himself that he wants to leave. Farke has previously stated that Gray has a fantastic future ahead of him, and the player knows he is in a great place to continue his progress.
“It is, without doubt, the right call. Gray is playing regularly, and a big move to a Premier League club would surely only lead to a loan back to the Championship in any event.
“At 17, Gray is in no rush. He has plenty of years ahead of him and will be hoping to be plying his trade next season in the Premier League with Leeds United.”
Tricky time
Keeping hold of Gray at Leeds United could prove challenging if a club of Liverpool’s stature expresses a strong interest and is willing to pay £40million for the promising talent.
Financial considerations, coupled with the player’s aspirations for top-tier competition, may create a scenario where Leeds faces difficulty retaining him.
The allure of playing for a historically successful and prestigious club like Liverpool, combined with potential advancements in his career, could be enticing for Gray.
The financial windfall from such a transfer might also be significant for Leeds, allowing them to reinvest in squad development.
Ultimately, the decision may hinge on Gray’s ambitions, the club’s financial considerations, and the negotiating prowess of Leeds in potential transfer dealings.
However, Leeds must not budge from their asking rate and if the Reds do want him, they will have to match their price.
In other Leeds United news, sources reveal that the Whites want to sign an EFL ‘Star’ and his club may be forced to sell him in January.