Stuart Pearce reacts as Tottenham sign Leeds United ace Archie Gray, ‘there were a few questions’
Archie Gray has a “fantastic reputation” as the Leeds United starlet’s transfer to Tottenham Hotspur was confirmed, according to Stuart Pearce.
Speaking on talkSPORT (2 June, 10:36) after Gray’s switch to Spurs had been confirmed by both United and Spurs, ex-England defender Pearce said that the midfielder was a good signing all round for the North Londoners.
Fabrizio Romano said (2 July) Spurs will pay £40million for Leeds, who in return having signed Joe Rodon on a full transfer for £10m.
Pearce thinks Gray will be a great asset for Ange Postecoglou, saying: “(He has a) fantastic reputation in the game.
“There were a few questions, but (this is a) good signing, good young player, and a good investment I would say.”
Leeds United confirm Archie Gray exit in transfer swap
Losing Gray is and was always going to be a bitter pill to swallow for every single United fan, given that the 18-year-old was more than just the latest cab off the rank from the club’s academy [Justin Allen, 15 April].
Missing out on the midfielder’s chance to fully continue his grandfather and great-uncle’s family legacy is the most gut-wrenching aspect of this transfer, but the Whites cannot afford to rest on their laurels.
Gray could well prove to be a star with Spurs, delivering on the “good investment” verdict given by Pearce, and is expected to be thrust straight into first-team action as he was by Daniel Farke last season.
Rodon heading the other way is a success for Leeds; avoiding a bidding war with Premier League clubs which, given the financial parameters that have forced the sale of Gray, they looked likely to lose [David Ornstein, 1 July].
While Gray could now either flourish or stagnate in North London, the Peacocks’ sole focus has to be making sure the sale does not come in vain, and with Rodon marshalling things at the back, Farke’s side are still well-placed to seal their Premier League return at the second time of asking.
In other Leeds news, an update on the future of Crysencio Summerville has been shared by Graham Smyth.
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.