Leeds starlet Archie Gray set for Brentford medical amid European interest

Leeds United midfielder Archie Gray is on the verge of joining Brentford after agreeing personal terms with the west London club, according to The Atheltic.

The 18-year-old has attracted interest from several Premier League and European teams, but Brentford have emerged as frontrunners and are close to finalising the deal.

Chelsea were linked with a move for Gray just days ago, with the Blues continuously trying to stock up on top talents.

Borussia Dortmund also showed interest in the versatile Leeds star. BVB has been a fertile nursing ground for young English starlets, but Brentford have emerged at the front of the queue for his signature.

A medical awaits the highly-rated midfielder/right-back, and if all goes smoothly, a transfer fee in the region of £35 million is expected to be agreed with Leeds.

Other clubs remain interested, but Leeds’ financial situation has forced them to sanction the move early despite their reluctance to lose such a promising talent.

Leeds are desperate to balance their books and avoid potential sanctions under the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Gray, as a homegrown product, translates to pure profit on the books.

Gray enjoyed a breakout season with Leeds in the Championship last term, playing a key role in their run to the play-off final.

The England Under-21 international made 44 appearances in the Championship under manager Daniel Farke.

Despite having a contract at Elland Road until 2028 (following a three-year extension in January), Gray’s previous deal was set to expire in 2025.

A move to Brentford is likely the wisest decision for Gray’s development. He will find it hard to break into a team competing for Champions League football. He is not ready for that level.

Gray will receive consistent playing time in the Premier League with Brentford, where he can grow and refine his skills against top-flight competition.

Brentford will be keen to get a deal over the line for manager Thomas Frank ahead of the new season.

Director of football Phil Giles and technical director Lee Dykes had a recruitment meeting at the beginning of April and highlighted central midfield as an area in need of reinforcement.