"Many other clubs are scouting the player" - Fabrizio Romano provides update on Championship star amid Chelsea links
Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Leeds United starlet Archie Gray is on Chelsea's radar. The Blues are keen to carry out their transfer business early in the window to have a full squad for the pre-season.
Teenage midfielder Gray has emerged as one of the most sought-after young players in the Championship this summer following a stellar season at Elland Road. Leeds United's failure to secure promotion was always going to haunt them given the quality of Gray and the season that he had.
Chelsea were linked with a move for the 18-year-old midfielder this week as Enzo Maresca prepared to officially begin his reign as manager of the side. Leeds United reportedly value the youngster at around £30 million, but the Blues have not made any offer yet.
Fabrizio Romano recently claimed that Borussia Dortmund and Tottenham Hotspur have also scouted him extensively. He said on his YouTube channel:
“For Archie Gray, I can tell you that Chelsea have been scouting the player, for sure he is a player they appreciate but also, Borussia Dortmund is the same.
“Dortmund are keeping a close eye on the situation of Gray. At the moment, no bid, just interest and we will see what clubs like Manchester United and others do in this situation because many other clubs are scouting the player.
“But at the moment the two clubs with concrete interest at Chelsea and Dortmund but for example, Tottenham have also been following the player closely, so let’s see who is going to move in terms of the bid, but still nothing official to Leeds United.”
Gray featured 52 times across all competitions in what was his debut campaign with Leeds United, having come through the academy. He was named as the EFL Championships Young Player of the Year after helping his side reach the playoff final.
Chelsea reach personal terms agreement with teenage target - Reports
Chelsea have reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with teenage defender Aaron Anselmino, a target from Boca Juniors (via TheHardTackle). The Blues have identified the 19-year-old defender as a solid addition to their growing crop of youngsters.
Manchester United were first credited with an interest in Anselmino, but the Argentine defender was keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. Journalist Graeme Bailey reported that an agreement on personal terms has been reached between Chelsea and the teenager as talks continue over a transfer fee.
The Blues view Anselmino as the long-term heir to Thiago Silva, who left the club this summer, and have sold their project to him. If he joins, he will spend the 2024-25 season on loan at Strasbourg before returning to Stamford Bridge later.