£50M Liverpool transfer not likely despite player's "strong relationship" with LFC hierachy

Archie Gray and his family reportedly believe that Leeds United is the best fit for him at the moment, despite maintaining a "very strong" connection with several key figures within the Liverpool organisation.

CBS journalist Ben Jacobs told Give Me Sport that it's unlikely Gray will move to Liverpool at this moment in time.

The reporter said: “Some members of Liverpool’s hierarchy have a very strong relationship with the Gray family. But it is clear within that family that the development of Archie Gray needs to be a patient one.

“The feeling from the player and the family is that Leeds is the right place for him at this moment in time. If anybody comes in for him in the summer, they’re going to have to give a clear pathway and potentially find a short-term solution for minutes through a loan.

“It’s unlikely if Gray signs for a club like Liverpool in the summer that he would be getting regular minutes. I think the player knows that and, at this stage, he is only really thinking about Leeds.”

Archie Gray may not join Liverpool in the summer but he's only young - it could happen down the line

Liverpool are positively stacked with exciting young talent so missing out on Gray this summer will not be a massive blow but given the Reds' constant attention to the latest top young talents, he won't be far from Liverpool scout reports.

This does not close the door on a future transfer to Liverpool. The careful approach taken by Gray and his family, coupled with the consideration of a loan for more playtime in case of a transfer, indicates a long-term view of his career trajectory.

It should be applauded, to be honest. It shows he's got his head screwed on and is surrounded by smart people. His father is Andy Gray, former Leeds and Barnsley attacker.

Given that Archie Gray is only 17 years old, there's ample time for him to grow, mature, and potentially move to a club like Liverpool when he's more prepared for the challenges it presents.

Granted a move for Gray has been touted at the £50 million mark, it was always an unlikely move.