Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph seemingly on their way out of Elland Road, a significant opportunity has opened for a homegrown talent to step up.
A valuable void in the squad will need to be filled, something that could cost Leeds’ owners 49ers millions in signing new stars.
Yet a promising young academy talent could be the answer to their prayers, who could gain invaluable experience, not only by earning a place on the bench in the Premier League but also by being a key figure in cup competitions.
The club’s recent history has shown Daniel Farke’s willingness to give youth a chance, and with a fresh challenge ahead, this could be the ideal moment for a talented prospect to make their mark.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty ImagesHarry Gray could step up for Leeds United this season
Leeds United are very proud of their prestigious academy that has gone on to produce several legends, and one of their upcoming starlets is Harry Gray.
He is the fifth member of the Gray family to play for the club and he first played for the Under-18s when he was just 14 years old.
Despite Leeds not being able to secure Gray’s long-term future just yet, due to rules around youngsters not signing long-term deals until they’re 18-years-old, he is a clear choice for the club’s future.
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With Patrick Bamford being told he isn’t part of Farke’s plans for the Premier League this season, with questions surrounding whether he’ll stay at Leeds or seek a move, and Mateo Joseph attempting to force a move away from Elland Road, this could be Gray’s chance.
Gray made his senior debut for Leeds last season during a dominant 6-0 Championship victory over Stoke City at Elland Road, being brought on as a late substitute.
While he may not be a starter, his pre-season performances have shown he is ready for senior football. He could see minutes off the bench in the Premier League and be a key figure in cup competitions, gaining vital experience and proving he can become a long-term solution for Leeds’ attack.
The 49ers homegrown solution to striking reinforcement
The 49ers-led ownership at Leeds United has already demonstrated its ambition by spending approximately £75 million in the summer transfer window, including bringing in Lukas Nmecha on a free transfer.
This significant investment in a new striker makes the cost-saving potential of promoting a homegrown player even more apparent.
PlayerTransfer feeLucas Perri from Lyon £15.6mJaka Bijol from Udinese £15mAnton Stach from Hoffenheim £17mSean Longstaff from Newcastle £12mGabriel Gudmundsson from Lille £10mLukas Nmecha from WolfsburgfreeSebastiaan Bornauw from Wolfsburg £5.1mStatistics via FotMob.
With Bamford and Joseph’s expected departures, rather than spending more money on another player, the club can allow young talent Harry Gray to step up.
While Gray is currently valued at around €500,000, his progression would save Leeds a fortune in transfer fees and wages, allowing them to redirect their spending to other key areas while entrusting a homegrown player with a chance to make his mark.