With the January transfer window fast approaching, now is the time for players to be linked with clubs ahead of a potential move at the start of 2025.
One of the names that has been linked with Leeds United is certainly a familiar one in Archie Gray. The academy graduate only left the club in the summer, but has been touted for a sensational loan return.
The England youth international made over 50 appearances in his one and only season in the first-team. He played a massive part in Daniel Farke's side making the Championship play-off final, losing 1-0 to Southampton at Wembley.
The 2023/24 Leeds United Young Player of the Year joined Tottenham in July for around £40 million. The deal also saw Joe Rodon move the other way after impressing on loan at Elland Road last season.
The Whites are not the only side linked Gray as clubs in England and Spain are also interested in a loan move for the 18-year-old. With all that in mind, LeedsLive takes a look at a potential return to Leeds for Gray...
How he has settled into life in North London?
Gray has only appeared in five of Spurs' 11 Premier League fixtures so far, amassing 41 minutes in the top flight. He has, however, played the full 90 minutes in all four Europa League games as well as their Carabao Cup wins over Coventry City and Manchester City.
The son of Andy Gray has been deployed in numerous positions in his limited game time. He has played at right-back, left-back, central midfield and even centre-back (during a Europa League fixture against Ferencvaros).
Despite only making sporadic appearances so far, Gray could be in-line to make his first league start in the coming weeks. With Rodrigo Bentancur serving a seven-match ban for using a racial slur on Uruguayan TV, it gives Ange Postecoglu a decision to make on the former Leeds starlet.
Other clubs linked with Gray
As mentioned earlier, there are a few clubs that are also interested in taking Gray on loan for the rest of the season. Leeds will face competition from other sides in England and Spain.
Leicester City and Southampton will hope to keep the current England U21 International in the Premier League. Tottenham may hope for the youngster to get regular minutes in the top-flight.
Sevilla has also been mentioned as a potential destination for Gray to spend the second half of this campaign. This would allow him to cut his teeth in another league, whilst also playing at a high-level.
Daniel Farke refuses to rule out move
Farke was asked last month on whether a move could be facilitated in January. He refused to be drawn into any speculation and gave a restricted answer. He said: "I don’t speak about other players who are under contract at other clubs. I’m a bit reluctant to do any comments who are not under contract anymore.
"Our fingers are crossed for Archie and his whole career. If you want some recommendation, he already has my telephone number but I keep it pretty private what I recommend."
Former Leeds winger gives his opinion
Lee Sharpe have expressed his thoughts on the versatile teenager's potential return to Yorkshire. He believes that a January move would be best for all parties.
"I think it would be unbelievable if Leeds could take Archie on loan in the second half of the season," Sharpe stated. "It would be one of those deals that suits everyone."
"Archie would be playing regular football at a very high standard in an environment that he has flourished in before, he would get better and would go back to Tottenham a better player. It would be great for Leeds because he’s such a quality, versatile player. It’s a loan that would benefit all parties."