Ange Postecoglou has made his first Tottenham signing of the transfer window with the club confirming Leeds midfielder Archie Gray in a player-plus-cash deal that sends Joe Rodon back to Elland Road.
Gray, who caught the attention of club scouts in his impressive breakout season at Leeds, rejected a deal worth around $66 million on Monday from Brentford in favour of joining Tottenham.
The rejected bid opened the door for Spurs to pounce on the 18-year-old, who signed a six-year deal to become the club’s third signing of the summer.
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A fee has yet to be disclosed, however, it is believed Spurs have paid up to $57 million, with an additional $19 million for Rodon’s return to Leeds.
Leeds confirmed in a club statement that Spurs had triggered a release clause in Gray’s contract due to the club’s failure to win promotion from the Championship last season.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou. Getty
Speaking on his signing, Gray revealed the pivotal role Spurs manager Postecoglou played in drawing him to White Hart Lane.
“It was a massive opportunity that I couldn’t really turn down,” he said.
“I’m not going to lie to you, I’m a massive Celtic fan so I love him and my whole family loves him.
“I haven’t really said this to be fair, he was also a massive factor because playing under a really good manager is important for me as well. I’ve still got lots to learn because I’m only 18 so that’s really important.
“It’s a massive project under Ange and that’s something I want to be a part of. I’m just really excited to play and get started with the team.
“It still hasn’t sunk in to be honest. I don’t think it will for the next few days until we’ve played a few games and I’ve got to meet everyone. There’s so many huge names and I’m just really grateful to be able to train with them every day.
“When Spurs came and I had the opportunity to play in the Champions League eventually and the Europa League this year, I couldn’t really say no.”
Gray made his senior competitive debut on the opening day of the 2023/24 EFL Championship campaign, starring in 52 games with Leeds.
His standout performances at right-back and centre-midfield led him to be named Championship Young Player of the Season.