following swooping in to hijack Brentford’s contract for the 18-year-old, Spurs came to an agreement to purchase Gray from Leeds for about £40 million following a hectic 72 hours.
In the beginning, the Bees agreed to a £35 million contract to recruit Gray rather than Spurs. They even scheduled a physical for the gifted young player, who impressed with 52 appearances across all competitions for Leeds last season as they just lost out on Premier League promotion.
For Thomas Frank’s team, who were congratulated for pulling off an under-the-radar deal for one of England’s most promising talents, the transfer appeared to be completed. The plea to exercise “caution until the ink is dry” was made by journalist Ben Jacobs, who was later validated when he wrote on X that the Spurs were a team to keep an eye on in case they were able to steal the deal.
That ended up happening, as Ange Postecoglou moved in to take advantage of Brentford’s inability to settle on the terms. Spurs and Leeds came to an agreement over the weekend, after intensified negotiations, with Gray valued at about £40 million. The agreement has now been made public.
Joe Rodon, an out-of-favour defender who made an impression when on loan at Leeds last season, has also left in a separate £10 million deal.
Now, in anticipation of Postecoglou’s second season in north London, technical director Johan Lange and Levy intend to assist the Australian with more squad improvements.
Spurs are interested in Fiorentina defender Michael Kayode, who may take Emerson Royal’s position as he heads out the door. The Brazilian is still frequently linked to a transfer to AC Milan.
According to an update on this from Viola News, an Italian news source, Tottenham and Aston Villa have made a bid of somewhat less than £17 million for Kayode. Fiorentina, however, believes the right-back is worth at least £21 million; according to Viola’s headline, Spurs’ initial bid has been turned down.
Kayode has been called a youngster with enormous promise. Under former manager Vincenzo Montella, he appeared in 26 Serie A games last season.
After Kayode’s match against Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Napoli, veteran Italian agent Pino Vitale told Radio Firenze Viola (via HITC), “This one is really strong.
Because of the manner Kayode had him under control, Kvaratskhelia had to adapt new wings! You don’t have to be concerned about him. Even though he is just 19 years old, he is a “player.”
