Leeds United will resist the temptation to sell key stars Archie Gray and Crysencio Summerville this summer amid growing interest in the pair from around the continent, according to TEAMtalk.
The Whites are chasing an immediate return to the Premier League after suffering relegation last season. They have enjoyed an excellent 2024 which has seen them emerge from the chasing pack to close the gap on both Leicester City and Ipswich Town. Their form saw them surge up the table to briefly hit top spot last month, although yesterday’s 2-1 defeat at Coventry City has seen them slip to third.
A huge part of their resurgence has come from the unity in which Daniel Farke has formed within the squad. It was a tough start to the campaign, with a number of first team stars targeted by a host of clubs before the transfer window closed in September. However, form began to improve as the period of uncertainty ended.
Still, their impressive performances are catching the eye of several potential suitors and there seemingly isn’t a day that passes without starlet Archie Gray being linked with another club.
The likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are all thought to be keen on the 18-year-old, with European giants Bayern Munich and Real Madrid recently joining the hunt. Rumours emerged earlier this week claiming that Leeds would consider a sale but only if they fail to generate enough funds from their players that are currently out on loan. However, that doesn’t seem to be the case.
According to TEAMtalk, a 700% pay rise is on the cards for the versatile teenager, whilst the Yorkshire-based side are also hoping to tie talisman Summerville down to fresh terms.
The Dutch under-21 international has hit 18 goals in all competitions and has also earned himself some admirers. These include Chelsea, Liverpool and West Ham United, but Leeds are hoping he remains at Elland Road.
It is said that the club are preparing two budgets ahead of the summer, one if they earn promotion and one if they remain in the Championship. Regardless, both players will be offered much-improved contracts in order to fend off the vultures.
In the meantime, Daniel Farke will continue his quest for Premier League football on Tuesday night when his side welcome struggling Sunderland to West Yorkshire.
Writer’s View
Leeds’ success this season means that they were always going to generate interest in their key players. The same is being seen with Leicester and Ipswich, although the Whites will feel that they are in a strong position in convincing the duo to remain at the club.
Gray in particular will be in no rush to move on, having become a third-generation player when he made his debut last August. Summerville has enjoyed his breakthrough campaign and will be keen to try his luck at the Premier League once again. Earning promotion should end all speculation, but it is incredibly tight at the top and they may have to work their way through the play-offs.
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