Real Madrid, Bayern Munich 'to rival Premier League clubs for Championship teenager'

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are reportedly preparing to rival Premier League clubs for the signature of Leeds United youngster Archie Gray.

The 18-year-old has been with Leeds since the age of eight, progressing through the various academy sides before making his first-team debut for the Whites in August 2023.

Gray has featured on 43 occasions for his Championship club during the 2023-24 campaign, including 38 outings in the second tier of English football, scoring once and registering two assists.

The youngster has not been on the losing side in Championship since Boxing Day, with Leeds in excellent form, rising into second position in the table, just one point behind the leaders Ipswich Town.

Gray signed a new contract at Elland Road earlier this year, with his current terms due to run until June 2028, so the Whites are in an excellent position when it comes to his future.

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There is Premier League interest in Gray

Liverpool, Manchester City and Newcastle United are all believed to be interested in the youngster, while Tottenham Hotspur are said to be keeping a close eye on his situation.

However, according to HITC, Bayern and Real Madrid are also in the hunt for Gray, with the pair considering making offers during this summer's transfer window.

The report claims that both clubs had scouts in attendance to watch Gray in action against Hull City on Monday evening, with the teenager playing the full 90 minutes in a 3-1 success for Leeds.

Gray has spent the majority of the 2023-24 campaign operating as a right-back, but he played in central midfield against Hull last time out, and his future could be in the middle of the park.

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Leeds determined to keep hold of Gray

Leeds are allegedly confident of keeping hold of their academy product despite the growing interest in his services.

The Whites are said to have 'no intention' of letting Gray leave, although they might have to secure promotion to the Premier League to prevent him from leaving.

Leeds are one point clear of third-placed Leicester City in the Championship, with the two teams competing with Ipswich Town for the two automatic promotion positions.

Daniel Farke's side will be aiming to continue their excellent run of form when they head to Coventry City on Saturday, before facing Sunderland and Blackburn Rovers in back-to-back home fixtures.