Archie Gray completed a permanent move to Tottenham Hotspur from Leeds United earlier this summer, and now Robbie Keane has shared his thoughts on the transfer.
Gray, just 18 years old, made over 50 appearances for Daniel Farke’s Leeds last season and was instrumental in their run to the Championship play-off final, where they narrowly lost 1-0 at Wembley.
Despite that disappointment, Gray has now found himself in the Premier League, with Spurs paying £40 million to secure the England U21 star from Leeds. This substantial fee allowed Leeds to reinvest a portion of it, using a quarter of the sum to sign Joe Rodon permanently.
Gray’s departure sparked strong reactions among Leeds supporters, who were dismayed that the club’s new ownership, The 49ers, would consider selling a homegrown talent with immense potential and deep family ties to the club.
Robbie Keane’s Verdict on Gray’s Move to Tottenham
Despite the uproar, Gray moved on, navigating a transfer saga that saw him initially linked with Aston Villa and Brentford before ultimately choosing Tottenham. Since joining Spurs, Gray has made an immediate impact, impressing during pre-season matches as a makeshift center-back.
Robbie Keane, who has connections with both clubs as a former Leeds player and coach under Sam Allardyce and a Tottenham legend, offered his perspective on the transfer.
Speaking to The Boy Hotspur, Keane said, “I know Archie Gray very well, having coached him at Leeds, and I think he’s a great signing for Spurs. His potential is very, very high and he’s a lovely lad. Tottenham is a really good fit.”
Keane continued, “I think he’s got a great chance to go all the way. He played a lot at right-back for Leeds last season, but he is definitely a midfield player so I’m interested to see where Ange Postecoglou plays him.”
Son Heung-min’s First Impressions of Gray at Spurs
Gray’s performances during Tottenham’s pre-season have caught the attention of both Leeds and Spurs fans, who have taken to social media to praise the youngster’s early displays under Ange Postecoglou.
Despite being deployed in an unfamiliar position, Gray has excelled, particularly in matches against Hearts and Vissel Kobe.
Tottenham captain Son Heung-min, speaking during the club’s pre-season tour in Japan, also had high praise for Gray and fellow young talent Lucas Bergvall. “Age is not important.
They should realize they play for Tottenham now and take big responsibility. I have no doubt that they will be very good. Let’s see what happens this season. I hope they’ll both be amazing.”
Gray’s move to Tottenham represents a significant step in his career, and early signs suggest he is adapting well to the new environment. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how he continues to develop and where Postecoglou ultimately decides to deploy his versatile new signing.
