Leeds United are renowned for their ability to produce and develop young talent, maintaining a clear pathway to the first team as part of the club’s identity for decades. Despite the club’s substantial financial resources prompting an aggressive squad-building approach, academy products like Crysencio Summerville and Pascal Struijk were crucial to Daniel Farke’s side in the 2023/24 season.
Several young players from Leeds’ academy have hoped for more opportunities this season in the Championship, and many have gotten their chances. The club has a long history of promoting young talent, from current rising star Archie Gray to past players like James Milner, Kalvin Phillips, Fabian Delph, Jonny Howson, Lewis Cook, and Jonathan Woodgate.
Farke needs to ensure the younger players can contribute again next year. Early signs this season were positive, with Charlie Cresswell, Joe Gelhardt, and Gray all expected to play roles, although Gray stood out the most from this trio.
Given Leeds’ reputation for nurturing talent, here are three academy players who could save the club millions if they reach their potential, much like Gray has.
Charlie Crew
Charlie Crew, another promising midfielder, recently signed a professional contract, committing to Leeds for two more years. Starting his career at Cardiff City, Crew joined Leeds in 2022 and swiftly progressed from the U-18s to the U-23 team by January 2023.
Despite not being as advanced as Gray, Crew is highly regarded within the academy and made his senior debut for the Wales national team, alongside Leeds teammates Ethan Ampadu and Dan James, before making a senior appearance for Leeds. He has been on the bench several times this season, and a loan move could be imminent to help him gain experience and eventually make a significant impact at Elland Road.
Diogo Monteiro
Diogo Monteiro, who joined Leeds from Servette in January 2023, has the potential to make his debut this season. The Portuguese youth international signed a three-and-a-half-year deal and is known for his ball-playing abilities at the heart of the defense. With the potential departures of Joe Rodon, Liam Cooper, and Charlie Cresswell, a spot could open up for Monteiro.
Victor Orta’s recruitment at the youth level has been commendable, and Monteiro’s athleticism and glimpses of talent suggest he could soon step up to the senior squad. Whether on loan or under Farke’s guidance, Monteiro seems poised to adapt quickly to the English leagues.
Harry Gray
Harry Gray, the 15-year-old brother of Archie Gray, carries a family legacy at Leeds. As the grandnephew of Leeds legend Eddie Gray, grandson of Frank Gray, and son of Andy Gray, Harry has a rich football heritage. He has already attracted interest from major clubs, including Manchester City, and is drawing significant attention from the Premier League.
Archie Gray dreams of playing alongside Harry and leading Leeds to European glory. In an interview with The Guardian, Archie expressed his aspirations: “I wouldn’t tell him this myself, but it’s my dream to play with Harry one day. I just don’t know how we’d get along in training as we’re so competitive in everything we do and always have been. We’d have to be on the same team but as brothers we’re really close.”
“My childhood dream was to win the Champions League with Leeds, captain England at senior level, and win a Ballon d’Or. I’m still really young, so there’s a long way to go before any of that happens, but I believe I’ve got the ability to do it.”
Harry is still a few years away from the first team, but if he follows in his brother’s footsteps, he has a bright future. He could become the fifth Gray to don a Leeds shirt and the second pair of brothers to play for the club, fulfilling Archie’s dream.
Conclusion
Leeds United’s academy continues to be a vital part of the club’s strategy, producing talent that can save the club millions in transfer fees. Players like Charlie Crew, Diogo Monteiro, and Harry Gray represent the next generation of Leeds stars. With careful development and the right opportunities, these young talents could play significant roles in Leeds’ future success, maintaining the club’s proud tradition of nurturing homegrown talent.
