According to Spanish news outlet Mucho Deporte, Sevilla are considering making a loan move for Tottenham Hotspur’s Archie Gray in the January transfer window.
The 18-year-old had a stellar breakthrough season with Leeds United last year, making 44 appearances in the EFL Championship. Earmarked by many as a potential star in the near future, Spurs beat multiple clubs to his signature in the summer, agreeing a £40 million move with Leeds for Gray.
However, it hasn’t been the best of starts for Gray in the Tottenham outfit. The youngster is yet to make a Premier League start and has played just 37 minutes of league football. Although Ange Postecoglou has started Gray in the EFL Cup and the Europa League, the teenager needs more game time to reach his potential.
Sevilla reportedly need a creative box-to-box midfielder and have identified Gray as a potential target. Having come through the youth ranks of Leeds as a midfielder, Gray has been utilised as a right-back for the last 15 months. He was even deployed as a centre-back against Ferencváros in the Europa League.
Tottenham Hotspur must consider various factors before loaning Archie Gray out
It will be interesting to see whether Tottenham allow him to leave on loan to Sevilla. Although he will get plenty of game time in Spain, some factors should be considered. Firstly, does Ange see him as a right-back or a midfielder? Given that Gray has primarily played as right back over the past year, Spurs may not want him playing in midfield in Sevilla.
Secondly, Gray was a signing for the future. Spurs may consider keeping him with the club despite his minimal game time. White it hinders his development to a certain extent, it does allow Gray to familiarise himself with Ange’s tactics. Additionally, with Tottenham competing on multiple fronts, the teenager is likely to get more game time as the season progresses due to Ange having to manage player fitness.
While it will be nice to see Gray get regular game time, multiple factors must be considered. More updates on the talented youngster’s situation should be available in the coming weeks.
