Leeds United play-off final could have massive Archie Gray knock-on effect: View | OneFootball

The game was in the balance after the 0-0 draw at Carrow Road, but the Canaries failed to build on that and ended up collapsing in West Yorkshire.

Ilia Gruev's free-kick put the Whites 1-0 up early on, before Joel Piroe's calm header doubled Leeds' advantage within the first 20 minutes.

A third goal followed before the break, with Georginio Rutter's shot striking the crossbar and crossing the line, much to the delight of Leeds fans who could relax a bit heading into the second half.

Crysencio Summerville added a fourth in the second 45 following some excellent work by Junior Firpo - and with Leeds beating Norwich on aggregate - they have set up a clash against Southampton at Wembley.

This game on Sunday is a crucial one for both teams, with the play-off final often being named "the richest game in football".

With both teams being relegated last term, to win promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking would be extremely satisfying for both sides, especially Leeds who took the automatic promotion to the final day, but couldn't overtake Ipswich Town in the end.

If the Whites are victorious in the play-offs, it could allow them to retain their key stars, including Crysencio Summerville, Willy Gnonto, Dan James and the out-on-loan Jack Harrison.

Leeds United promotion could strengthen their chances of keeping Archie Gray

Gray is another star player who has attracted plenty of interest in recent months, both from English top-tier teams and top-flight clubs from around Europe.

This is because the 18-year-old has shone during the 2023/24 campaign - and he has been able to do this because Daniel Farke has given him plenty of game time.

Although Gray started the season in midfield, he has spent much of the campaign at full-back.

Even when Connor Roberts arrived on loan during the January transfer window, Gray has been one of the first names on the teamsheet, and the England youth international knows that he is likely to continue winning plenty of game time if he stays.

A loan move back to the second tier looks unlikely considering how much of an asset he has been at Elland Road and he may not get much game time at another top-tier team if he moves permanently, so remaining at Elland Road would be the best option for him if they go up.

If they don't go up, a top-tier move could appeal to him. But if promotion does happen, there are very few reasons for him to move, potentially except for a bigger salary.

However, he could be offered an attractive financial package by Leeds if they go up, something they may not be able to do if they lose the play-off final.

According to the Daily Mail, they may even have to raise up to £100m in player sales if promotion isn't achieved, which would all but rule out a wage increase for Gray.

At his age though, money isn't the most important thing for the 18-year-old.

Testing himself at a high level should be the priority for him, as well as game time, and he could get the best of both worlds at Elland Road.

Archie Gray's contract situation could also strengthen Leeds United's negotiating position

Gray's existing deal could be enough to keep him at Elland Road, with Leeds probably needing to address other areas before dealing with the 18-year-old's teams.

According to The Athletic, the player's current contract doesn't expire until the summer of 2028, which means he still has four years left before his deal comes to an end.

His contract situation, combined with the fact some of his family members have played for the club in the past, may mean that he stays at Elland Road for at least another season.

And promotion could help Leeds to keep him for as long as possible, with vultures potentially more reluctant to circle for him if the Whites succeed on Sunday, knowing Farke's side will be in an even stronger negotiating position.