Leeds United fans eagerly await news of Harry Gray’s contract situation, to which Daniel Farke has hugely positive news.
Leeds being back in the Premier League hopefully gives them more of a leg to stand on when it comes to retaining top talent.
Prior to being back in the division in August, two players from the current crop left for ‘bigger’ Premier League sides. Finlay Gorman went to Manchester City, and Oliver Boast went to Spurs, but Harry Gray remains on United’s books.
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Earlier in October, Gray turned 17. With that birthday, the young forward was then eligible to pen his first professional contract at Elland Road.
Such a contract would mean Leeds can turn away any club looking to secure his services. Previously, the above names left purely for a training compensation fee. A nominal sum compared to what they could develop into.
Leeds United will want to get Harry Gray tied down as soon as possible. (Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith)
There’s been no confirmation on a contract for Gray yet, with two fellow youth players signing their first professional deals. What didn’t help fan nervousness was Gray’s Instagram profile picture being spotted as just a black circle – something that has become more and more attributed to players that are unhappy.
Daniel Farke virtually confirms imminent contract for Harry Gray
It’s never been Daniel Farke’s place to comment on ‘potential’ transfers or in-house business at Leeds. He rightly prefers to talk when matters are concluded, which is completely fair.
However, he’s made an exception for Gray. He was asked prior to the loss against Burnley about Gray, to which he revealed that his current injury absence is due to be over soon, with an announcement expected to follow.
“Normally we just speak about business when it’s done,” he said, via the YEP. “That’s one of my principles. Harry is still out of team training at the moment with his hip, I’m expecting him back next week.
“And of course behind the scenes we are trying to build our squad for the future and with players that attract us, Harry is a very good player and I expect very positive news in the future. It makes sense when you announce a contract when he is fit and available.”
Leeds United saving themselves millions by tying Harry Gray down for the long-term
This is as close as you’re going to get to Farke just outright saying Gray is signing a contract.
It’s huge news for the club and long-term prospects for Gray as well. It was a deal that was inevitable from both sides and hopefully we see an announcement very soon.
Gray looks like he’s right on the cusp of first team football, and at 17, that’s an exciting thought for the club.
I do think Farke is right to keep him grounded and not rush into playing him in the Premier League, but that looks a matter of time too.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!