Breaking news- Spurs agrees to make bid for £70m attacking midfield maestro who’s like “Poch-era Dele Alli”, his combination with Gray will be hard to stop
Ange Postecoglou is set to embark on his second season at Tottenham Hotspur with a clear goal in mind: transforming last season’s fifth-place finish in the Premier League into a coveted top-four spot, thereby securing Champions League football for the first time since the 2021/22 season.
Tottenham have already made a significant move in the transfer market by signing Leeds United’s promising midfielder Archie Gray for approximately £40 million. This acquisition led to the departure of Joe Rodon, who moved to Leeds on a permanent basis for around £10 million.
The key question now revolves around how Spurs will structure their midfield, with an impressive array of options including Gray, Rodrigo Bentancur, Yves Bissouma, Pape Matar Sarr, and James Maddison. There is also speculation about the potential addition of another midfielder to the squad.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Tottenham are preparing a bid for Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher. The reports indicate that Spurs are currently leading the race for the Blues academy graduate. While Aston Villa and Atlético Madrid have also shown interest, it appears unlikely they will meet Chelsea’s valuation of around £50 million, a figure similar to the one they received for Mason Mount. Although nothing is advanced yet, Tottenham are expected to make a move for Gallagher, making this a transfer to keep an eye on as the summer window progresses.
Archie Gray had a remarkable season with Leeds United, making 52 appearances across all competitions, providing two assists, and contributing to 22 clean sheets. His versatility was on full display as he played in various positions: 30 appearances at right-back, ten in central midfield, six in defensive midfield, and three in attacking midfield.
Conor Gallagher also had an impressive season at Chelsea, with 50 appearances in all competitions, seven goals, and nine assists. Gallagher’s versatility mirrors Gray’s, with the ability to play in defensive midfield, central midfield, and attacking midfield positions.
Both players are accustomed to playing in a double pivot system. Gray often partnered with Glen Kamara or inverted from full-back, while Gallagher finished the season strongly in a duo with Moises Caicedo. Their potential partnership at Tottenham promises to bring a blend of athleticism and technical skill.
Gray and Gallagher could provide a formidable athletic base for Tottenham’s midfield. Both are adept at covering ground, engaging in defensive duels, and making crucial tackles. Gray averages 2.3 tackles per 90 minutes, while Gallagher averages 2.45 tackles per 90. Additionally, Gallagher boasts impressive defensive metrics, including 1.24 interceptions and 1.44 blocks per 90 minutes.
Gallagher’s high-energy style aligns well with Postecoglou’s high-intensity approach, akin to the “Poch-era Dele Alli,” with his ability to win the ball back aggressively high up the pitch. On the other hand, Gray offers a more technical profile, averaging 4.15 progressive passes, 1.8 progressive carries, and 1.08 successful take-ons per 90 minutes. His ability to resist pressure and use his 6-foot frame to shield the ball allows him to drive forward from deep areas effectively.
The inclusion of James Maddison adds another creative dimension to the midfield. Maddison can serve as the crucial link between midfield and attack, capitalizing on the duality and carrying qualities of Gray and Gallagher. This combination has the potential to elevate Postecoglou’s side to new heights, making Tottenham a formidable force in the upcoming season.