Tottenham transfer news: Archie Gray maintains Spurs’ model that has already brought Daniel Levy considerable success.
Tottenham have used the Championship more effectively than others in recent years. They have emerged as one of the greatest talent development organisations in the country, frequently bringing in players from the second division.
Unlike many other divisions in Europe, where players frequently fail to adjust to English football or the rise in standards, the Championship is a consistent source of possibilities for teams. Looking at the country’s national side demonstrates this sufficiently.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka are the only players selected by Gareth Southgate for Euro 2024 who have not previously played for an EFL club. They have instead graduated directly from Premier League academies. However, the grounding of others across the pyramid is really outstanding.
It’s telling that, since signing Leeds United academy star Archie Gray, Spurs have won four of the previous ten EFL/Championship Young Player of the Season awards. The list is impressive.
Dele in 2015 for his time at MK Dons – a season in which Tottenham beat the competition to sign him over the winter before loaning him back – Ryan Sessegnon taking things by storm at Fulham three years later, and then two of the last three seasons, with Brennan Johnson’s promotion securing 2022, followed by Gray.
Despite the fact that the success has not been sustained, this is a superb roster of names. Dele was once the top young player, if not the best, in the Premier League. He has reached a World Cup semi-final, a Champions League final, and risen to a level that few others have. Sessegnon has not been as successful, but his talent is undeniable.
Johnson had a hit-and-miss first year at Spurs, but he has shown enough to suggest that £45 million is a reasonable price to pay for him. While Gray is one of the best prospects available. If this list isn’t enough, perhaps the players Spurs haven’t been able to sign make a more compelling story.
Ollie Watkins, Jude Bellingham, Michael Olise, and Max Aarons were among the other winners. Alex Scott from Bournemouth is now another. Some of these have the potential to rise to the level of Bellingham and Olise, or even Watkins, but it’s wonderful company to be in.
Tottenham‘s starting lineup would almost certainly include Olise and Bellingham. Watkins is sure to be there as well. This is the level of players that can be found underneath the surface. It is also worth noting that the four contracts they have signed here are only a fraction of the total amount of interest.
Tottenham‘s plans for Gray remain unknown, but if he can live up to the expectations and levels of some of his predecessors, Ange Postecoglou will be in for a treat.
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