Just yesterday, Dustin wrote on our promising cadre of academy graduates, with several linked to loan moves; and things move quickly in silly season. This time, it’s Alasdair Gold with a rare breaking news story, with Jamie Donley the player of interest:
Understand Jamie Donley is set to head out on loan to Leyton Orient. Should get plenty of minutes at the League One club for his development. He’s also expected to be handed a new contract at Spurs. Orient also among those interested in young Tottenham goalkeeper Josh Keeley.
— Alasdair Gold (@AlasdairGold) August 15, 2024
One of Spurs’ top performers for the U21’s, attacking midfielder-slash-left back Donley is headed to League One club Leyton Orient on loan. With minutes already at senior level, some may have been expecting a loan to the Championship to really test Donley’s skill; but Spurs appear to believe that Donley will get more playing time in the English third tier.
Minutes are key for Donley’s development at this point in his career over anything else, really; and he should get them at Orient. One of their standout midfielders, Idris El-Mizouni, has just departed to Oxford United in the Championship, and the remaining options in the middle of the park are either very young, or uh… let’s just say experienced. Donley’s versatility should also help him in his quest for opportunities as well, with his ability to play across the front line (and left back, apparently!) additional strings to his bow.
There aren’t really any details out there around the small print of the deal as yet; but I’d say it’s quite likely Spurs will insert a recall clause into the contract, allowing them to send Donley on loan at a higher level in January if he sees significant success at League One level.
With the speed at which the Dane Scarlett loan was wrapped up, I’d say this one will likely progress pretty quickly as well. Good luck, Jamie – I’m excited to see what you can do in senior football!
