Paul Robinson has stated that considering Archie Gray’s value to the team and the fact the Whites would be “tested” by summer bids, he ought to be rewarded with another new deal at Leeds United.
The England Under-21 midfield star inked a new contract at Elland Road in January that would last until 2028. On March 12, he became 18 years old, and that contract went into effect (Phil Hay, Square Ball Podcast, 15 March).
But with interest in the adolescent gem growing, there have been hints that Leeds may already be looking to offer him greater terms (Football League World, 26 March).
Gray has previously been linked to teams like Liverpool (Daily Mail, November 10) and Tottenham (Mail, January 8). Former Leeds goalie Robinson, who spoke exclusively to MOT Leeds News, feels that new terms would put him on par with other high earners while also helping the team fend off summer interest.
He stated, “I think he deserves another contract because he’s one of the best players this season and he should be rewarded the same way if you look at the pay levels and pay grades.”
“You see the high earners on the team, how valuable he has grown to the group, and the number of games he has participated in. You get rewarded for your performance and your potential.”
It’s a very wise move on the part of the club to protect their asset, as a player with a shorter contract obviously has less value, but a longer contract means that if and when the time comes for the club to sell him, they will have locked up their asset and rewarded a young player who has performed admirably and has a ton of potential.
“I believe a lot of what the player wants to do, what those close to him want for the player, and whether he wants to play in the Championship should the worst happen and Leeds stay in the Championship will determine whether he stays at the club or not.”
“If Leeds were in the Premier League, they would undoubtedly receive proposals for him. They would be put to the test, and they would be wise to reject those offers. In my opinion, this is inevitable.
“The player has a choice to choose about his growth if they are in the Championship. I believe that by offering him a new contract, Leeds is rewarding the player and giving him a salary that he richly deserves.
For Leeds United, the new Archie Gray contract makes sense.
This season, Gray has been a complete revelation for Leeds, appearing equally comfortable at right back and in the middle of midfield.
There will inevitably be interest in Gray given his age, potential, and the fact that England boss Gareth Southgate has already mentioned him by name.
You get the impression that Leeds will be able to stave off interest in signing him this summer; even if they are unable to advance, he will benefit most from remaining at Elland Road in terms of his development.
Giving Gray a massive wage increase to bring him in line with other key players in the team would, however, sweeten the deal.
In other Leeds United news, a club is reconsidering signing a Whites loanee to a permanent contract.
