Tottenham aims to fuel rise with these three young players

Entering the offseason with glaring needs for an attack-minded winger, a clinical finisher and left-back depth, Tottenham was expected to be active in the transfer window. However, the Hotspur have yet to add top-billed stars.

Instead, manager Ange Postecoglou — who guided Tottenham to a fifth-place finish in his debut season — and the Hotspur are counting on young players to fuel their rise. 

Here are three teen midfielders to watch.

Archie Gray

Tottenham plucked Gray, a versatile midfielder, from Premier League hopeful Leeds United during the summer. Paying $57.8 million for the services of the 18-year-old, the Hotspur got Gray for what they hope is a fraction of what he will be worth in a few years.

Gray has impressed Tottenham coaches and the front office during training and could secure a big role in the Premier League, which opens its season Aug. 16. He has demonstrated he's a capable center-back or defensive midfielder who fits with Postecoglou's style of play. 

After Tottenham's first friendly of the summer, Postecoglou said Gray did an excellent job fitting in, via Dom Smith of The Standard. 

"He’s adapting to the intensity and tempo of everything we do," he said. 

Lucas Bergvall

Tottenham acquired the 18-year-old last summer from Djurgardens IF, a Swedish team based in Stockholm, for $10.9 million. Tottenham outmaneuvered Barcelona to sign Bergvall and subsequently sent him on loan back to Djurgardens IF to continue his development

In 11 starts during his last season at his home club, Bergvall netted three goals and one assist. 

Similar to Gray, Bergvall — who could be a key cog in Tottenham’s midfield — has impressed with his performances during training and preseason.

Bergvall, who left a preseason match July 20 against Queen Park Rangers due to injury, showcased composure on the ball and creativity during his limited stints on the pitch.