Football League World

Leeds United have confirmed the sale of their homegrown talent Archie Gray to Tottenham Hotspur.

Interest in the United academy graduate had been long-standing from a plethora of sides both in the Premier League and across the top divisions on the continent.

The youngster burst onto the first-team scene at Elland Road last season at just 17 years of age by the time the first game of the campaign against Cardiff City rolled around, before showing the quality and maturity of someone way beyond his years to solidify a starting berth under Daniel Farke.

However, a string of eye-catching performances weren't able to aid the Whites' return to the Premier League after losing the Championship play-off final to Southampton on May 26th.

The Wembley defeat meant there was a distinct possibility that Leeds would lose some star performers across the summer, and Gray is the first of those, as he moves to North London.

Leeds United react to Archie Gray departure

Just days after it seemed that Brentford would swoop under the noses of Tottenham, who have expressed an interest in Gray's services since early March, the collapse of a £35m move to the Gtech Community Stadium has seen Ange Postecoglou's men confirm the signing of the two-time England U21 international after triggering a release clause which activated following the defeat to the Saints a month ago.

Given the history Gray and his family have with his boyhood club, which includes his father Andy, grandfather Frank and great-uncle Eddie - one of Leeds' greatest-ever players - this exit will prove particularly difficult to stomach, and this mood has been reflected in an official statement by the West Yorkshire outfit.

It begins: "Leeds United can confirm Archie Gray has completed a permanent transfer to Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur for an undisclosed fee, after the North London outfit met a release clause that was triggered by the club’s failure to get promoted at the first attempt."

After reflecting on his breakthrough season, which included the accumulation of 52 appearances across all competitions, the statement finished by claiming that losing the sought-after talent in this fashion has strengthened the club's desire for promotion.

"Understanding the attraction of Premier League and European football, the club, with a heavy heart, agreed the transfer, but the move has strengthened the board’s resolve to ultimately return Leeds to a position where it can meet the footballing ambitions of even its brightest stars," the statement continued.

"Whilst we understand that supporters will be hugely disappointed to lose such a home-grown talent, and a family name so synonymous with Leeds United, the move improves the club’s chance to compete for automatic promotion next season by increasing our ability to build a competitive squad within the league’s financial control regulations."

"Everyone at Leeds United is heartbroken to see one of our own depart and would like to thank Archie for all his efforts and professionalism. He leaves with the very best wishes for his future career and in the knowledge that Leeds will always be his home," the club concluded.

Tottenham Hotspur are showing huge faith in Archie Gray's potential

Tottenham have also released a statement following the conclusion of the deal, which also confirms that the midfielder, who can also perform immensely at right-back, has signed a six-year contract at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Despite never playing a single minute in the Premier League prior to this move, it showcases the huge trust the Australian boss and Spurs hierarchy have when it comes to realising Gray's eventual potential, which many believe is an extremely high ceiling.

The London club have an infamous history when it comes to nurturing homegrown talents such as Gareth Bale, a career path which Gray no doubt has his sights set on emulating.

Joe Rodon arrival somewhat softens the blow for Leeds United

Whilst the departure of one of Leeds' own has also reportedly left Daniel Farke "seething" and made the German's future in LS11 uncertain as pre-season begins for a number of Championship clubs, the permanent acquisition of Joe Rodon will somewhat soften the blow for Whites supporters.

The Welshman enjoyed a hugely successful stint on loan from Spurs last season, and has now signed a fresh four-year deal with the club and becomes the first addition of the latest rebuild at Elland Road.

Leeds must now add further bodies to their squad in a summer that is already showing similar signs to this time 12 months ago, with the future of many big names left uncertain.

Highlights

Joe Rodon is set to join Leeds United permanently, beating Ipswich Town and Southampton to a deal for around £10 million.

Rodon's return to Elland Road could be part of a double swoop from Tottenham Hotspur, including midfielder Oliver Skipp, says Carlton Palmer.

Former Leeds player Carlton Palmer praises the potential signings, believing they would be a massive bit of business for the club.

Southampton, Leicester City, and Ipswich Town look likely to have missed out on Spurs' Joe Rodon, with Leeds United set to sign the defender permanently in a move Carlton Palmer is impressed by, whilst also believing that Daniel Farke should look to re-sign Oliver Skipp as well.

The Welshman is in the last year of his deal with Spurs in June, meaning he could perhaps be available for a cut-price fee in the summer. Leeds did not include an option to buy in the deal, and it was always likely that he would have approaches from Premier League outfits.

Rodon looks set to leave Tottenham Hotspur this summer, having struggled to establish himself in the first-team picture ever since arriving from Swansea City in October 2020. Leeds lost to Southampton in the play-off final and Russell Martin's team are one side to have been linked recently with a move for the Wales international. On top of Southampton, it has been reported that the Spurs defender is also attracting interest from the likes of Leicester City and Ipswich Town.

However, a recent update from journalist Alasdair Gold has revealed the Tractor Boys’ interest in securing a deal for the 26-year-old at the potential expense of Leeds, with a bid knocked back for the defender. Regardless of whether he came back to Leeds or not, more depth and quality was required in central defence this summer, with Liam Cooper yet to put pen to paper on a new deal, Robin Koch moving on permanently and Charlie Cresswell set to move to France - that latter deal has collapsed, but a departure feels likely still given how far the young defender got through the exit door.

Diego Llorente and Max Wober's futures are also uncertain at this stage - and both could potentially move on either on loan or permanently following the Whites' failure to secure a Premier League return at the first time of asking. The latest comes from talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook, who states that Rodon is set to return to Elland Road.

That's after recent reports from the Yorkshire Evening Post outlined positive news that the defender is reluctant to start afresh with a new club next season amid speculation over his future. It was thought that Rodon could probably be sold below market value, but that was still likely to be around the £10 million mark.

It has since been confirmed by Graham Smyth that Rodon will be coming in permanently if he returns to Elland Road, which would be a big boost for Leeds. They look set to beat Ipswich Town and the Saints to a deal for around £10 million.

Carlton Palmer reacts as Joe Rodon closes in on Leeds return

Ex-England international and former Leeds man Carlton Palmer is excited at the prospect of Rodon signing, whilst he has urged Farke to make it a double swoop from Spurs by also adding Oliver Skipp.

Speaking exclusively to Football League World, he said: "With Leeds having to sell one of their prized assets in young Archie Gray, who looks to be on his way to Spurs, Leeds have to comply with the PSR deadline over the next few days.

"But great news that's coming out is around Joe Rodon, who spent last season on loan at Leeds and made over 50 appearances for the club, could be coming the other way as part of the deal.

"This would be a massive move for Leeds. Yes, they're losing one of their talented players in Archie Gray, but they will have received a huge amount of money and also brought in a player that made an impact last year with over 50 games.

"He is expected to leave Spurs this summer, as he is not a part of Ange Postecoglou's plans.

"Another player that I know worked with Daniel Farke at Norwich City, and a player he is very interested in is Oliver Skipp.

"It's perhaps thought that a deal could include Rodon and Skipp, plus money for Gray. I mean, that would be a massive bit of business.

"Skipp was involved for Farke when they got promotion at Norwich, and they would be a massive bit of business for the football club."

Joe Rodon's Leeds impact

Most Leeds fans will have been preparing themselves for transfer disappointment regarding Rodon this summer, so the news will come as a huge boost to the club.

The 26-year-old has just enjoyed one of the most successful loans in the entirety of the Championship with the Whites - establishing himself as one of the best centre-backs in the division, as well as a firm fan favourite in West Yorkshire, despite defeat in the play-off final.

Rodon was almost ever-present and made 50 appearances for the club in all competitions last season, with the team competing for promotion back to the top-flight at the first time of asking throughout his tenure. Rodon was part of a formidable centre-back partnership with Pascal Struijk at the heart of Leeds' defence during the first half of the campaign, and a similarly excellent one with Ethan Ampadu in 2024.

Some continuity will be needed from the Whites next season, and is especially important in the spine of the team, where relationships have been built throughout the season, both on and off the pitch. Rodon, Struijk, and Ampadu arguably gives Leeds the best defensive axis in the Championship when played together, and that is priceless.

Not only that, but it softens the blow of Gray moving the other way to North London, but Rodon's importance to Farke's side should not be understated whatsoever.

A fresh update has emerged regarding Leeds United's interest in Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Oliver Skipp.

Leeds boss Daniel Farke is an admirer of the 23-year-old, especially considering he stood out in the German's Norwich City side that won the Championship title in 2021.

The Whites are likely to be in the market for a new midfielder this summer, with youngster Archie Gray poised to sign for Tottenham and Glen Kamara attracting interest from Stade Rennais.

While Farke would no doubt be interested in reuniting with Skipp at Elland Road, it seems unlikely that a move will materialise this summer, according to football.london.

It is likely that a number of Premier League clubs would be keen on a move for Skipp if he is made available by Spurs this summer. Ange Postecoglou must also make sure he has enough players who can fill their homegrown quota for the Europa League next season before he sanctions a departure for Skipp.

The midfielder has made 106 first team appearances for Tottenham, including 24 games last season, although he is reaching the stage of his career where he will want to be a regular starter.

Farke may hope that his previous relationship with Skipp is enough to convince him to drop into the Championship, although that is highly unlikely with Premier League clubs keeping tabs on the 23-year-old.

Joe Rodon is expected to return to Elland Road

One player who could be convinced to sign for Leeds despite interest from the top flight is defender Joe Rodon.

The Welsh international spent last season on loan at Elland Road, and is likely to return to the club while Gray goes in the opposite direction as part of a separate deal.

Newly promoted Premier League sides Ipswich Town and Leicester City were reportedly interested in a move for the 26-year-old defender, but it seems as though he will opt to return to Leeds for another season of Championship football.

Ipswich had a £10m offer rejected for the centre-back, so Leeds should feel as though the transfer is a real coup for them despite Gray leaving to join Spurs at the same time.

Skipp would be an outstanding signing

While it looks highly unlikely that Skipp will join Leeds this summer, there is no doubt that Farke will be keeping tabs on the midfielder's availability in case an opportunity presents itself to bring him to Elland Road.

Skipp played 45 games in the Championship for Norwich under Farke during their 2020/21 Championship title-winning campaign, and was instrumental in the middle of the park.

Following news of Gray's impending move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and with the potential of Kamara also departing the club this summer, Leeds must ensure they have enough options in central midfield ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

If it does turn out that Skipp is unattainable for Leeds during this transfer window, they must quickly turn their attention to other targets to avoid being short of options going into next season.

Highlights

Leeds United are set to sign Joe Rodon from Tottenham Hotspur.

This deal looks set to be separate from the Spurs/Gray one.

Ipswich Town were in the mix for Rodon, but Leeds look set to have won the race.

Leeds United are set to sign Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Joe Rodon, according to talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook.

The Wales international's future was unclear following the Whites' play-off final defeat against Southampton back in May.

If Leeds had come out on top against the Saints, that may have made it all but inevitable that Rodon would make the move back to Elland Road, with the player doing more than enough to justify a permanent switch.

But with Leeds needing to balance the books and the player's contract expiring next year, reducing the chances of a loan deal being struck, it was uncertain whether the Championship side were going to seal a return for him.

Regardless of whether he came back or not, more depth and quality was required in central defence this summer, with Liam Cooper yet to put pen to paper on a new deal, Robin Koch moving on permanently and Charlie Cresswell set to move to France.

Diego Llorente and Max Wober's futures are also uncertain at this stage - and both could potentially move on either on loan or permanently following the Whites' failure to secure a Premier League return at the first time of asking.

Ethan Ampadu, meanwhile, may be required in central midfield next season and that could reduce the number of options that Daniel Farke has at centre-back.

Leeds United set to sign Joe Rodon

As mentioned above, it was previously unclear whether Leeds would be able to recruit Rodon after failing to secure a top-flight return in May.

However, Archie Gray looks set to sign for Spurs and that could help the Welshman seal a return to West Yorkshire, even though it won't be a swap deal.

Graham Smyth believes Rodon will be coming in permanently if he returns to Elland Road, which would be a big boost for Leeds.

They look set to beat Ipswich Town and the Saints to a deal.

Leeds United will have very mixed feelings about recent Archie Gray and Joe Rodon news

Losing Gray is a big blow and it wouldn't be a surprise if there's a very negative reaction to his departure on social media.

Considering his potential, he's arguably the last player that Leeds should be looking to sell. However, some would argue that the books need to be balanced and the sale of the teenager could help the Whites in that quest.

Even with this financial argument in mind, his departure will still be painful for Leeds fans, who would have wanted to see Gray stay at Elland Road for a considerable amount of time.

Signing Rodon is a big boost though, with his performances helping the Whites to secure a place in the promotion mix last term.

His contributions could help to win Leeds a place in the top flight at the end of next season, so this swap deal may not turn out to be a good one for Farke's side.

With a vocally ambitious ownership group, Birmingham City will be striving to make an immediate return to the Championship in the 2024/25 campaign.

After Tony Mowbray stepped down from his post due to an ongoing health condition, Chris Davies was recently the man elected to oversee Birmingham City's promotion mission from League One, where they hadn't been for more than 20 years.

Formerly assistant to Brendan Rodgers at Swansea City, Celtic and Leicester City, the 39-year-old Head Coach held the same role under Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham Hotspur last term and Blues supporters may just have hopes of a North London raid.

That could well take place in the form of acquiring striking prospect Jude Soonsup-Bell, who could be set to depart the club.

Jude Soonsup-Bell's current Tottenham Hotspur situation

According to a claim made by BBC reporter Nizaar Kinsella (June 28, 11:47am), Spurs striker Soonsup-Bell is attracting interest across the EFL when it comes to both permanent and loan deals.

It's believed that Soonsup-Bell, who was previously prolific for Chelsea's academy, had been courted in January, with Spurs rebuffing such propositions at the time.

The existing familiarity between Soonsup-Bell and Davies could work in Birmingham's favour, as you can likely imagine that Spurs will want the young forward to develop in a comfortable and cohesive environment if they are to decide that they want to loan him out rather than sell.

Relationships and connections are often pivotal in successful transfer deals, which this theoretical one would certainly have the potential to be.

Birmingham will be looking for fresh, younger options in the striker next term after the return of impressive loanee Jay Stansfield to parent club Fulham, and his impression on loan should create a blueprint for Davies and co to replicate once again.

Chris Davies should bring Jude Soonsup-Bell to Birmingham City from Spurs

There's always a selection of promising academy players throughout the country who simply appear a class above the youth-team game, and Soonsup-Bell fits that criteria.

The 20-year-old frontman has often caught the eye with the academies of both Chelsea and Spurs and he feels primed to graduate to first-team action in the near future, which Birmingham could certainly facilitate.

He was typically more prolific at under-18's level, but his significant upturn in form last year is indicative of a player now finally capable of making the leap of faith into senior football.

Meanwhile, EFL veteran Lukas Jutkiewicz surely represents an ideal mentor for a player like Soonsup-Bell if he stays at City, and the vast array of experience in the 35-year-old's arsenal could be easily translatable and, in turn, wholly beneficial.

With Jutkiewicz registered as Birmingham's only senior striker at the time of writing, it would be unwise and counterproductive for Soonsup-Bell to occupy such a burden, and they need to get further additions in through the door regardless of whether they pursue the Spurs academy star.

He's definitely worth a punt, though, and even though Alfie May is of interest to the Blues as a more proven option, Soonsup-Bell has his career ahead of him and a hell of a lot of potential.

Loan moves that involve young players from the top-flight are encouragingly low-risk by nature; the potential pay-off is that you get yourself a player perhaps already of Premier League class for a meager loan fee and salary percentage, or adversely, you just end up with signing someone not quite cut out for the level, but at little cost.

It's low-risk, high-reward shopping that consistently pays dividends up and down the divisions and Birmingham can benefit from visiting that aisle this summer, even if the club's transfer warchest vastly outstrips those of their League One competitors.

Leeds United midfielder Archie Gray could be on the move this summer, with interest ramping up in the midfielder across the Premier League, and sources have told Football League World that it is Brentford who are in the best position to strike a deal for the talented teenager.

The 18-year-old's breakout campaign with his boyhood club was extremely impressive and that has naturally stirred up interest across Europe. Leeds' teenage sensation took home the division’s Apprentice of the Season award after a stunning campaign at Elland Road, whilst also winning the prestigious Championship Young Player of the Season award.

But a 1-0 loss to Southampton in the play-off final has led to speculation over the futures of multiple key Leeds players this summer, including the likes of Gray, Willy Gnonto, and Crysencio Summerville.

It has since been claimed in a recent report from TEAMTalk that a three-way race for Gray's signature is composed of Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund, but the interest does not stop there.

The Telegraph report that Chelsea are the latest club interested in securing the teenager's services following the recent appointment of Enzo Maresca, who will be familiar with Gray after his promotion exploits with Leicester City last term.

The report adds that Leeds are demanding a fee well above £30 million amid domestic and continental interest and Chelsea, despite already possessing an array of midfield options, whilst Keith Wyness has claimed that Leeds young star is worth closer to the £45 million - £50 million mark.

Spanish clubs Barcelona and Real Madrid are also believed to have watched the player closely in the last year, along with English teams and German outfits. Bundesliga side RB Leipzig are in the mix to recruit Gray, according to HITC. However, it has also been stated that Gray is reportedly considering a summer switch to European giants Borussia Dortmund, according to Bild.

It is understood that Gray is now considering a switch to the Bundesliga side this summer, as he weighs up the next step in his career. Gray's family know it would be "folly" to reject potential talks with Borussia Dortmund if they made a concrete move, according to TEAMtalk.

Not only are Dortmund interested, but Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are also in the mix for him.

The latest on Archie Gray's Leeds United future

Following the defeat to Southampton, the Daily Mail reported that the Whites may have to generate £100 million in player sales following their failure to secure promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Simon Jones, also of the Mail, is reporting the latest on Gray's future, reiterating Leeds' requirement to raise funds for PSR purposes.

He believes that Premier League rivals Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham are set to battle it out in the race to sign Gray, whilst Alasdair Gold of Football London is reporting that Spurs and and Leeds are "casting an eye over a number of each others' players this summer" with potential moves in mind, including the likes of Joe Rodon and Oliver Skipp as a part of a potential swap deal including Gray.

Despite the vast interest in his services, it doesn't seem as though Gray will try and force an exit, with TEAMtalk reporting earlier this week that the player's family and agent are happy for the 18-year-old to remain at Elland Road at this stage.

Gray has been raised in a family rich in footballing heritage, and indeed intertwined in Leeds' history as well. His dad Andy played for Leeds and a string of top clubs, while his great uncle Eddie and grandad Frank are both Leeds legends.

Football League World sources have been informed that Gray is open to staying at Leeds this summer, with his family also keen for him to remain in West Yorkshire to further his development. However, if Gray were to leave, it has been confirmed to us that his priority is with a club that will offer him regular game time and a clear pathway into the first-team.

It has also been revealed to Football League World that Brentford are another top-flight side definitely keen on the 18-year-old midfield starlet, and the Bees are currently leading the way as they are able to offer Gray the footballing opportunities he requires, with their confidence growing over striking a deal with the Whites and agreeing terms with Gray.

Leeds would like to retain their academy graduate and boyhood fan, but are feeling the aforementioned financial pressure, meaning his departure more likely than unlikely from Elland Road, as things stand.

His versatility and maturity has been extremely impressive for his age, and he continues to rapidly develop. Naturally, for such a talented youngster, the pace at which Gray is improving has caught the eye of many of Europe's elite, as well as the England setup with Gareth Southgate.

The 18-year-old made 52 appearances across the 2023-24 campaign across both central midfield and right-back and contributed with two assists as Leeds finished third. Leeds were able to fend off any January interest and tie the central midfielder turned right-back to a long-term contract but his career with Leeds could come to an end this summer as Leeds look to build a team capable of a promotion push once more.

Archie Gray's transfer stance

Leeds can't stand in the way of a player with huge potential, especially as their financial situation dictates the need for sales this summer.

He's already a key player at such a young age but has taken so much responsibility in his stride, across two positions no less, already. It's no surprise at all that plenty of clubs in top-flight leagues across Europe are interested after Leeds' play-off final defeat.

Gray's development is the most crucial thing, and he himself will know that the first-team opportunities are there at Elland Road, where they may not be so easy to find elsewhere. However, a side like Brentford are clearly able to offer him more game time than some of the Premier League's elite.

Interest in Hull City winger Jaden Philogene has severely intensified over recent days, with Everton now joining the list of potential suitors for the winger.

Ever since moving from Aston Villa in a reported £5m deal last August, the former Cardiff City and Stoke City loanee's pedigree at Championship level has increased with a plethora of strong performances and goal contributions for Hull, despite the club falling short of their well-documented play-off ambitions last term.

However, it's all change at the MKM Stadium this summer as Tim Walter takes the reins from Liam Rosenior, with the German the third man in Acun Ilicali's tenure tasked with ending City's exile from the Premier League.

To do so, plenty of movement is expected across the summer window, and it does seem like the potential for Philogene to follow the likes of Ozan Tufan out of the exit door isn't beyond the realms of possibility.

Everton plot move for Hull City's Jaden Philogene

Unsurprisingly, many clubs in the Premier League and across the continent have monitored the 22-year-old's development and fine form over the course of the season, having been highly-rated previously from his time at Villa Park, with it being mooted at the time that Philogene could've played a part in Unai Emery's first-team plans.

However, the London-born wide man has continued to blossom in the second tier and ended up as City's top goalscorer last term with 12, and that includes a two-month spell on the sidelines between December and February after sustaining a knee injury.

Philogene's goals were often eye-catching, none more so than his rabona-style effort against Rotherham United, and unsurprisingly, such ability has now caught the eye of Everton and Sean Dyche, who are said to be preparing a £16m offer for his signature, according to MailSport.

The report goes on to state that the Toffees face competition from West Ham United, with Julen Lopetegui and the Hammers hierarchy currently deciding whether to pursue their own bid for the four-time England U21 international.

Philogene isn't the only prized asset on the Tigers' books linked with a move to either Goodison Park or the London Stadium, as centre-back Jacob Greaves falls under the same category, although West Ham are said to have turned their attention to Wolves' Max Kilman, whilst the 23-year-old has been viewed as a potential Jarrad Branthwaite replacement on Merseyside.

Further competition in the race to sign Jaden Philogene

Unlike Everton, West Ham's interest in Philogene has been known prior to the aforementioned report, as the East London side face competition from Southampton and Ipswich Town, meanwhile Crystal Palace are another side credited with previous interest.

Tottenham Hotspur's desire to strike a deal with the Championship side has been much more long-standing, having seen their name surface alongside Hull's top scorer back in February, before strengthening their pursuit in recent days following a shock link between the winger and Barcelona.

Hansi Flick's side have identified Philogene as a 'plan B' after being unable to garner the €58m required to acquire Athletic Bilbao and Spain international, Nico Williams, with it being said that the Catalan side have made contact over a possible loan deal with a view to make it permanent next summer, which could be impacted by a potential £15m buyback clause in the deal that saw him move from the West Midlands to HU3, as it only activates once Hull and Villa are in the same division.

£16m would fall way short of Hull City's Jaden Philogene valuation

You'd be hard-pressed to find any Tigers supporter who believes that Philogene hasn't earned a shot at regular top flight football. However, accepting a £16m offer from Everton would no doubt frustrate the majority, especially when Acun Ilicali has stated he wouldn't accept even £30m from a top flight side.

That was back in April, so perhaps there is a chance that the Turkish businessman has tempered his expectations when it comes to a potential sale value, but the ball is firmly in City's court to negotiate the hardest possible bargain for any suitors.

The fact so many sides are interested should also influence the chairman and CEO Tan Kesler to take this avenue, especially when their new head coach needs to fill so many gaps in what is now a thin squad after the departure of a multitude of loan signings from last season.

Unfortunately, this latest twist shows that those connected to the second tier side may be waiting even longer for a resolution to this ongoing transfer saga ahead of the new season.

Hull City have a fight on their hands to keep hold of Jaden Philogene this summer, with Premier League outfit Tottenham Hotspur the latest club to join the race for his signature.

Despite only moving to the MKM Stadium on last summer’s transfer deadline day in a £5m switch from Aston Villa, the Tigers are primed to lose their star winger in the coming months after a stunning individual campaign.

Philogene was among the most exciting and impressive players in the Championship last term, scoring twelve goals and laying on a further six assists as Hull missed out on a play-off spot on the final day.

Hull’s failure to reach the Premier League under Liam Rosenior, which was fueled by significant investment into the playing squad under then-boss Liam Rosenior, could prove costly as Philogene has rightly earned significant domestic and continental interest.

Spurs’ entrance into the Philogene transfer race will only generate further doubt over the 22-year-old’s immediate future in Yorkshire.

Tottenham Hotspur eyeing transfer for Hull City’s Jaden Philogene

This revelation comes from Pete O’Rourke’s report for Football Insider, which claims that Ange Postecogolou’s side have a concrete interest in Philogene.

The Lilywhites do, however, reportedly face competition from West Ham United and top-flight newcomers Ipswich Town, while Spanish giants Barcelona have also expressed their own interest in what would surely represent an intriguing potential move for Philogene.

The report adds that, rather unsurprisingly, Philogene is eager to test himself at a higher level after previously turning out in the Championship for the likes of Stoke and Cardiff City, and Spurs’ fifth-placed finish in the 2023/24 campaign means that they can offer Europa League football.

Interestingly, London-born Philogene’s younger brother Blake just happens to be on the books of Spurs’ academy too, factors which could also potentially turn his head.

Hull City need to plan for life without Jaden Philogene amid Spurs, Barcelona transfer interest

Philogene has earned the right to try his hand in the Premier League, and Hull may find it difficult to stand in his way.

They may also find it difficult to rebuff the figures that are likely to be proposed by Philogene’s suitors, providing a healthy opportunity to reinvest in the squad and construct a more well-rounded side.

That’s not to say they’re better off without Philogene - if the winger was to perform a U-turn and decide to stay put, then it would likely be the highlight of the summer for Tigers fans - but they simply must start planning for life without him, as the reality suggests he won’t be a second-tier player for too much longer.

His numbers, particularly for dribbling and shot-creation, are truly outstanding, indicative of a player destined for a glittering career in football’s upper echelons.

Glimpses of that were seen during a highly-successful loan spell with Cardiff the season prior, helping to keep the Bluebirds in the division by the skin of their teeth.

Indeed, there may be an argument to be had that he’s simply too good for the Championship already and although acclimating to top-flight football is a different entity, the evidence suggests that he’s capable of making the transition.

Therefore, Hull will benefit from a succession plan, getting to work on direct replacements and formulating a strategy on how the imminent outlay they receive for his services will be sustainably reinvested into the squad.

Crystal Palace prospect Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, who lit up League One with Charlton Athletic in 2022/23, is said to have been on the radar for some time and would represent an ideal stylistic replacement for Philogene, with the ex-Chelsea youth team player encapsulating the same ingenious flair and trickery as Hull’s in-demand star.

It’s believed that Rak-Sakyi has also earned interest from Hull’s Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers and newly-relegated Luton Town.

Although you feel that Palace would likely want a loan move for a player of his rich potential, Hull could even attempt to strike a permanent deal given the transfer kitty that they should soon at their disposal.

Highlights

Oxford United are interested in Tottenham's Jamie Donley.

The U's have already made several signings, as they aim for long-term Championship success.

Donley's versatility and potential could benefit Oxford's attacking options.

Oxford United are among the clubs to have taken an interest in Tottenham Hotspur attacker Jamie Donley, according to Give Me Sport.

The U's have already made a decent number of signings during the early stages of the summer, as they look to remain afloat in the Championship for more than one season.

Addressing several areas, with last season's loanee Jamie Cumming the latest player to secure a move to the Kassam Stadium, they will be hoping to make some more signings before the season starts to be as strong as possible for their clash against Norwich City on the opening day.

There's certainly work to be done in the final third, with play-off final hero Josh Murphy leaving the club on the expiration of his contract and the likes of Billy Bodin and Marcus Browne also departing.

The likes of Mark Harris and Owen Dale may be at their disposal, but the former endured a fairly mixed season at the Kassam Stadium and he will need some support to fire Oxford to safety next term.

Thankfully for the U's, set-piece specialist Cameron Brannagan and the likes of Tyler Goodrham and Ruben Rodrigues can also contribute, although it will be a big ask for the latter to make the step up to the second tier, having played non-league football not too long ago.

Des Buckingham's side have already been linked with Ipswich Town's Ali Al-Hamadi, but more than one signing will need to be made in the attacking department if they want to retain their second-tier status for the long term.

Thankfully for them, they can still spend fees despite being sanctioned and there's plenty of time left before the season starts, which should allow them to bring in plenty of attackers before the opening day.

Oxford United eyeing Jamie Donley move

Donley has been a prolific attacker in Tottenham's academy in recent years, and has also appeared for the first team.

However, his contributions for the U21 team have been most notable, registering eight goals and 17 assists in 23 appearances last term.

Able to operate as a striker and an attacking midfielder, the versatile 19-year-old has become an attractive player for Oxford, according to Give Me Sport.

Spurs are potentially prepared to let him go out on loan this summer, but they are keen for the player to join a side that is likely to give him plenty of game time.

Highly rated by officials at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Tottenham will be keen to closely monitor his development if he does make a temporary exit from the North London club.

Oxford United could benefit from having Jamie Donley at their disposal

It will be interesting to see how Buckingham sets up his team next term.

The 4-1-4-1 system paid dividends during the latter stages of the 2023/24 campaign, but it's unclear whether the U's are prepared to be that brave next term.

Oxford will probably need to play Donley regularly if they are to win the race for his signature, so they may need to switch system and play a 4-2-3-1 to give him the protection of two defensive midfielders.

Brannagan and Will Vaulks could start behind Donley, which could give the latter more of a license to push up and support Harris, who will need adequate service to be effective next term.

Donley can also play as a striker, but it would be hard to see Buckingham opting to start two strikers unless the U's switch to a back five, something they may be tempted to do following Murphy's departure.

Former Tottenham Hotspur and England midfielder Chris Waddle has tipped Archie Gray to follow in the footsteps of some of European football's biggest names after a stellar first season of regular football.

Leeds United may have missed out on their goal of returning to the Premier League at the first time of asking, but last season's squad at Elland Road was full of shining lights that grabbed the headlines and the attention of clubs higher up the footballing pyramid than the Championship.

Gray is no exception to that rule either, with interest in the versatile youngster gathering pace for a lengthy period of time now, and it only looks set to intensify over the course of the summer window.

Chris Waddle issues Archie Gray verdict as Tottenham circle on Leeds United sensation

Spurs are one of several English top flight and European outfits monitoring the 18-year-old's situation in West Yorkshire, and have made their intentions clear on a deal for some period of time, with interest going back to early March.

The North London side have a knack for developing some of the best homegrown talent before making a mass amount of profit later on in their career, and Waddle believes Gray could follow that mould if he was to be signed by Ange Postecoglou.

"I’ve seen enough of Archie Gray to say that he is a very good player. He’s a versatile player that can perform in a number of roles: midfield, full-back. That tells you two things about him: his manager trusts him to perform in numerous roles and he has the intelligence to do it. That’s rare for a player of eighteen-years-old. He was ever-present in that Leeds United team last season, so again, that’s a good sign," Waddle said.

"His best role is in central midfield, and I think that's where he prefers to play," he added.

"He's an ideal Tottenham project. Tottenham have a history of buying young players and giving them an opportunity. We’ve seen Tottenham make some very canny moves in the transfer market over the years with younger players. They can obviously see the potential that’s there, and it wouldn’t surprise me if Gray followed the likes of Gareth Bale and Luka Modric by joining Real Madrid for a massive fee if he lives up to his potential," the 63-year-old claimed.

"Tottenham can obviously see his potential. He was probably the pick of The Championship players in terms of his age and ability. I think he could easily step up to the level of the Premier League," Waddle continued.

"Whether he gets straight into the Tottenham team is a different question. I’m sure they will have a precise development plan for him which could see him join another Premier League club on loan."

He concluded: "He'd be a good signing for Tottenham Hotspur because he's only going to get better."

Modric, Bale comparison showcases Archie Gray's potential

Everybody connected with Leeds and the Championship in general is aware of Gray's potential to make it to the very top level.

However, to be compared with the likes of Modric and Bale - despite holding different attributes to the former Spurs and Real Madrid duo - so early on in his career is extremely high praise, and will no doubt fuel even more motivation to succeed with his boyhood club next season as Daniel Farke looks to pick up his squad after the disappointment of losing to Southampton at Wembley last month.

Previous reports have stated that Postecoglou is looking for a long-term replacement for current full-back Pedro Porro, with Gray namedropped among those, given his string of performances at right-back, which led to the departure of natural full-back and club stalwart Luke Ayling.

However, many are in agreement that Gray's best and most natural position is in the centre of midfield, despite only making 18 appearances across all competitions in the middle of the park last season, as per Transfermarkt.

However, as much as interest from the likes of Spurs, Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund as well as being watched by Real Madrid and Bayern Munich scouts will give Gray an even greater lease of confidence, a recent update from TEAMtalk will no doubt please Whites supporters more than anyone.

The publication claim that those close to him, including his agent, see no reason to rush his exit from West Yorkshire, given Gray's blossoming in the first team over the last ten months.

His family are under no illusions that Dortmund have a great reputation for developing the likes of Jude Bellingham, but have been impressed with Leeds' own management of their academy graduate.