The Sun

It’s no secret how much I enjoyed being here last season, so I’m delighted to officially become a Southampton player ahead of the new season.

The feeling of bringing this club back to the Premier League and playing in front of these fans week-in and week-out has been amazing.

To have the opportunity now to represent this club in the Premier League is really special and I can’t wait to get going and to see all the lads again.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis

I'm not going to lie to you, I'm a massive Celtic fan so I love him and my whole family loves him.

He's also a massive factor because playing under a really good manager is really important for me as well. I've still got loads to learn because I'm only 18 so it's really important.

When Spurs came and I had the opportunity to play in the Champions League eventually and Europa League this year I couldn't really say no.

I know so many players that are here, not so much the first team but the young lads and another thing is that it's a massive project under Ange and it's something that I want to be a part of.

Archie Gray

Well what can I say? What a journey it’s been. 17 years of my life devoted to this club and it’s been a pleasure. I’ve loved every minute of my time at this football club and created some memories & friendships I’ll never forget.

When we were relegated in the 22/23 season, I felt personally responsible for my part played in that. I made it my goal to ensure we got back to the Premier League within the first season, as I know how devastating a a position that can be for a club if it doesn’t happen.

I’m very proud of what we achieved together last season - creating memories of a lifetime for us all. But bigger than that, hopefully going some way to righting the wrongs of that relegation season.

The overwhelming amount of messages I’ve received in the past few days has honestly touched me and I thank each and every person for taking the time to do so, it means so much to me and my family.

I want to thank all of the team mates I’ve played with, the coaches that l’ve worked with and fans that l’ve grown with.

I’m glad I’m leaving the club with them in the Premier League, where they belong, and wish Leicester City all the best in the upcoming season and further on.

I’m one of your own, Leicester. But it’s time for me to go now…

Thanks for the ride. KDH

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

LEEDS UNITED have confirmed that Archie Gray joined Tottenham due a special release clause in his contract.

The 18-year-old completed a £30million move to North London on Tuesday, with centre-back Joe Rodon heading to Elland Road in exchange.

Gray was initially in talks to join Brentford, but negotiations broke down last week AFTER he completed a medical.

Spurs subsequently swooped in to hijack the move and managed to wrap it up within just a few days.

Leeds have since confirmed that Tottenham triggered a release clause that came into play following the club's failed promotion push.

An official statement read: "Leeds United can confirm Archie Gray has completed a permanent transfer to Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur for an undisclosed fee, after the North London outfit met a release clause that was triggered by the club’s failure to get promoted at the first attempt."

The statement continued: "Understanding the attraction of Premier League and European football, the club, with a heavy heart, agreed the transfer, but the move has strengthened the board’s resolve to ultimately return Leeds to a position where it can meet the footballing ambitions of even its brightest stars.

"Whilst we understand that supporters will be hugely disappointed to lose such a home-grown talent, and a family name so synonymous with Leeds United, the move improves the club’s chance to compete for automatic promotion next season by increasing our ability to build a competitive squad within the league’s financial control regulations.

"Everyone at Leeds United is heartbroken to see one of our own depart and would like to thank Archie for all his efforts and professionalism.

"He leaves with the very best wishes for his future career and in the knowledge that Leeds will always be his home."

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Leeds qualified for the Championship Play-Offs by finishing third in the table.

They beat Norwich 4-0 across two legs in the semi-finals but lost out on a Premier League place following a 1-0 defeat to Southampton at Wembley.

Gray has signed a long-term contract with Spurs that will run until 2030.

He will wear the number 14 shirt and can also play as a right-back.

SOUTHAMPTON will back away from a deal for Jack Clarke because Sunderland want £18million.

Saints have been tracking the exciting 23-year-old left winger for months and fancy him for the Premier League.

But the valuation is putting the Prem new boys off.

And a big price tag may also be an obstacle for a move to land Sunderland keeper Anthony Patterson.

Saints are already looking at alternative stoppers.

Clarke joined Sunderland from Tottenham initially on loan in 2022.

But the winger's impressive performances led to a permanent move a few months later.

Since then the England youth international has amassed a total of 27 goals and 22 assists in 112 appearances for the Black Cats.

Clarke impressed last season in the Championship with 15 goals and four assists in 42 appearances.

Sunderland finished 16th in the second division with 16 wins and 22 defeats in 46 matches.

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Southampton, on the other hand, returned to the Premier League only a year after their relegation.

Saints made it to the play-off final where they defeated Leeds 1-0 at Wembley.

Russel Martin's side returned to the top flight alongside Leicester and Ipswich.

CANNY Crystal Palace will keep a keen eye on Michael Olise’s Bayern Munich form — because they are due a 15 per cent sell-on if he moves.

The Frenchman, 22, has chosen the Bundesliga giants with a £50million fee expected. But any further big deals will see the Eagles cash in again.

Palace fancy free agent Ryan Sessegnon, too.

The former England youth international, 24, was released by Tottenham last month after playing just seven minutes last season.

He missed the first chunk of the campaign with a hamstring injury, before briefly returning in January.

Sessegnon came on during the latter stages of his side's 1-0 FA Cup win over Burnley.

He then featured in an Under-21s match in a bid to build fitness, only to suffer another hamstring injury, ruling him out for the rest of the season.

Upon his release, Sessegnon issued a heartfelt message to fans on social media.

He wrote: "Thank you, Spurs.

"I would like to thank everyone associated with Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.

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"I joined at 19, and have met some very special people along the way that have supported and guided me.

"From my team-mates, to the back-room staff, to my coaches - thank you!

"I've got memories and friends for life.

"From making my debut to scoring in the Champions League. I'll always cherish these moments.

"Unfortunately things didn't work out the way I or the club wanted during my time here.

"It broke my heart that I couldn't play more in front of you, a lot more.

"I want to wish you all the best for the future.

"Thank you. Sess."

Sessegnon joined Spurs from Fulham in the summer of 2019.

He went on to play just 57 times for the Lilywhites in five years, scoring three goals.

TOTTENHAM chief Ange Postecoglou sparked hysterics live on ITV - by suggesting Arsenal target Benjamin Sesko snubs a Premier League move this summer.

Chelsea and Manchester United have also been linked with the RB Leipzig striker, who is celebrating Slovenia making history in reaching the last-16 at Euro 2024.

The Gunners remain frontrunners should the 21-year-old opt to move.

But Sesko has a reported £55.3million release clause and the latest expectation from Germany is that he will extend his Leipzig contract.

And when ITV discussed exciting footage of the hot prospect following England's 0-0 draw with Slovenia, Postecoglou delivered a verdict that had his fellow pundits bursting into laughter.

The straight-faced Aussie said: "I think a big club would have looked at him this year, and it's a smart move for him to stay there for another year.

"I think there's still some development in him, but really good attributes for a striker position, for sure."

Presenter Mark Pougatch gleefully responded: "Is that the Tottenham manager saying it's a smart move not to go to Arsenal?"

Postecoglou quickly replied: "No comment, mate."

Cue great amusement from the studio's other experts - Gary Neville, Ian Wright and Roy Keane."

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After holding Gareth Southgate's Three Lions to a stalemate, Sesko and Co launched the type of crazy rejoicing rarely seen by a team who had merely secured third place in their group.

But Slovenia's joy was understandable as it's the first time they have reached the knockout stage of a major tournament.

Sesko bagged 14 German top-flight goals for Leipzig in the domestic season just finished.

That placed him joint eighth overall in the Bundesliga - way behind 36-goal top man Harry Kane in his first campaign for Bayern Munich.

Second in the scoring table was Serhou Guirassy, who also looms large on Arsenal's summer wish-list.

Guirassy hit 28 goals in helping Stuttgart to a surprise runners-up spot.

And the Guinea ace, 28, has reportedly told his club he wants a transfer.

TOTTENHAM chief Ange Postecoglou sparked hysterics live on ITV - by suggesting Arsenal target Benjamin Sesko snubs a Premier League move this summer.

Chelsea and Manchester United have also been linked with the RB Leipzig striker, who is celebrating Slovenia making history in reaching the last-16 at Euro 2024.

The Gunners remain frontrunners should the 21-year-old opt to move.

But Sesko has a reported £55.3million release clause and the latest expectation from Germany is that he will extend his Leipzig contract.

And when ITV discussed exciting footage of the hot prospect following England's 0-0 draw with Slovenia, Postecoglou delivered a verdict that had his fellow pundits bursting into laughter.

The straight-faced Aussie said: "I think a big club would have looked at him this year, and it's a smart move for him to stay there for another year.

"I think there's still some development in him, but really good attributes for a striker position, for sure."

Presenter Mark Pougatch gleefully responded: "Is that the Tottenham manager saying it's a smart move not to go to Arsenal?"

Postecoglou quickly replied: "No comment, mate."

Cue great amusement from the studio's other experts - Gary Neville, Ian Wright and Roy Keane."

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After holding Gareth Southgate's Three Lions to a stalemate, Sesko and Co launched the type of crazy rejoicing rarely seen by a team who had merely secured third place in their group.

But Slovenia's joy was understandable as it's the first time they have reached the knockout stage of a major tournament.

Sesko bagged 14 German top-flight goals for Leipzig in the domestic season just finished.

That placed him joint eighth overall in the Bundesliga - way behind 36-goal top man Harry Kane in his first campaign for Bayern Munich.

Second in the scoring table was Serhou Guirassy, who also looms large on Arsenal's summer wish-list.

Guirassy hit 28 goals in helping Stuttgart to a surprise runners-up spot.

And the Guinea ace, 28, has reportedly told his club he wants a transfer.

TOTTENHAM'S 2024-25 season away kit has been leaked and the first impressions are giving mixed reviews.

Fans even came up with a clever theory as the new strip looks very similar to a World Cup-winning sides shirt.

Earlier this month Spurs unveiled their home kit for next season with an updated look featuring a navy collar, sleeve and side panels on the Nike shirt.

But the away jersey has gone for a light blue vintage striped kit similar to what the Lilywhites repped back in the 80s.

A club statement said: "The kit is inspired by the iconic second shirts worn in the early 80s.

"The light blue stripes bring back a pattern that is synonymous with away kits from some of the most iconic eras in the club’s history.

"The club crest features in the centre of the jersey, providing a futuristic twist to a classic Nike design.

"The sleeves and neckline include a yellow and white tape which runs as a consistent theme through all of this season's jerseys."

But fans have likened the new kit to World Cup 2022 champs Argentina's iconic stripes.

Supporters eagerly anticipate that the good fortune of the South American nation will extend to Ange Postecoglou's squad next season.

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One fan said: "Tottenham really wants to win a trophy by making a Jersey of Argentina colour."

While another added: "They are trying to look like Argentina maybe then they’ll win a trophy."

However, some fans were not so keen on the vintage look and referred to the kit as "horrid" with "grandads PJs vibe".

But some fans were concerned about the price of the shirt which will set you back an eye-watering £125 for an elite shirt that replicates what the players wear.

For the stadium version, it will still cost you a hefty £85.

One fan tweeted: "Can it be EVEN more expensive?"

A second then added: "£300+ it would cost for a family of four, absolutely ridiculous."

TOTTENHAM will try to thrash out a deal with Southampton to swap Joe Rodon for Carlos Alcaraz.

Spurs want to sell £10million-rated Wales centre-half Rodon, 26, who is back from a loan at Leeds.

And they are also keen on Argentine midfielder Alcaraz, who had a temporary stint at Juventus last season.

The 21-year-old did not want to play in the Championship after joining Saints from Racing Club for £12m in January 2023.

While in Italy, Alcaraz made 12 appearances and provided one assist.

But the clubs will have to work on valuations as Alcaraz is rated at around £30m.

Saints are also after a new keeper for the Premier League and like Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson, 24.

Gavin Bazunu ruptured an Achilles in April and Southampton had to call in Alex McCarthy, 34, for the run-in.

But the Black Cats will ask £15m-£20m for Patterson while Saints are looking to spend about half that.

Alcaraz is not the only player that Ange Postecoglou's side is interested in.

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Spurs are also interested in signing Manchester City outcast Yan Couto.

The wing-back starred at Girona in LaLiga last season as he helped the club qualify for the Champions League.

Tottenham are keen on signing the Brazilian as a replacement for Emerson Royal.

Leeds prospect Archie Gray is also a target for the club as he enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Championship.

The midfielder is rated at £20million but has interest from Liverpool.

TOTTENHAM are lining up a swoop for Manchester City right-back Yan Couto.

Spurs intend to sell Emerson Royal and want to bring in Couto to challenge Pedro Porro’s spot, with City demanding £40million.

The Brazilian has been out on loan since signing for City for £6m in 2020 from Coritiba in Brazil.

Couto, 22, has spent the last two seasons at City’s sister club Girona in Spain and helped them achieve Champions League qualification for the first time last term.

City are looking to cash in on him but it is also possible 5ft 6in Couto will leave on another loan deal.

Reports back in Brazil suggest he extended his City contract until 2026.

Couto scored one goal and recorded ten assists as Girona finished third in LaLiga — he also made his Brazil debut in October.

Meanwhile, Spurs will battle Manchester City and Liverpool for Leeds midfielder Archie Gray, 18.

Borussia Dortmund have been put off by the Whites’ asking price of £20m but the club will sell after missing out on promotion.

The Championship side need to raise funds this summer through player sales in order to comply with FFP.

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This could make negotiations for the promising midfielder easier.

Leeds could also be forced to cash in on Crysencio Summerville and Willy Gnonto.

Summerville earned plenty of plaudits during his starring season in the second division.

TOTTENHAM academy product Shaq Coulthirst has signed for sixth-tier side Maidstone.

Striker Coulthirst, 29, made his Spurs debut in December 2013, replacing Roberto Soldado in a 4-1 Europa League win over Anzhi Makhachkala.

At the time, he was battling with Harry Kane for a place in Spurs' squad, with the now England captain one year older than him.

Coulthirst had already made a name for himself at age group level having scored a hat-trick for the U19s against Barcelona in a 4-1 victory in 2012.

His performances caught the attention of both Barca and Real Madrid, but a big move never materialised.

He ended up leaving Tottenham for Peterborough in 2016 following loans with Leyton Orient, Torquay, Southend, York and Wigan.

Just seven goals in 43 appearances saw him depart after two seasons, before he went on to have spells with Barnet, Borenham Wood, Billericay and Ebbsfleet.

Now he has penned a deal with National League South side Maidstone for next season following a loan spell with Braintree where he scored 11 in 29 matches.

In the eight years since leaving Spurs, Coulthirst has scored 55 goals in 215 club appearances.

Last year, ex-Tottenham academy player Lawrence Vigouroux revealed the talent Coulthirst had as a youngster.

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He told talkSPORT: "In the year above we had Harry Kane, Alex Pritchard, Ryan Fredericks.

"We had a player, Shaquile Coulthirst, he played for the first team a few times he was unbelievable. Unbelievable, youth team, unbelievable, Under-21s and then he had a couple of really bad injuries."

He went on to add: "He was honestly one of the best players that was there at the time and had a real aura - a presence about him, captain of the youth team.

"And then came up and played really young for the 21s team.

"Someone that, without the injuries, who knows what would have happened with him?

"Because he had everything going for him."