Leeds United are willing to accept offers for Wilfried Gnonto in January in order to fund their winter transfer kitty, according to Football Insider.
After arriving in Yorkshire for just £4 million on transfer deadline day in 2022, Gnonto impressed in the Whites’ Premier League campaign, appearing 24 times in the league.
The Italian winger picked up two goals and four assists in the top flight, most notably an assist to complete a 4-3 comeback against Bournemouth and a goal after just 55 seconds against bitter rivals Manchester United.
Following the Peacock’s relegation to the Championship, there were question marks as to whether the Italian International would choose to stay at Elland Road, and when Everton came knocking, the 20-year-old refused to play for the Yorkshire outfit in hopes of securing a move to Merseyside.
Since the window slammed shut and Gnonto remained in West Yorkshire, he has been given just the one start by Daniel Farke, appearing off the bench in every one of the games when he has been available. In this time he has picked up just a single assist for Farke’s side, a lesser return than his maiden season in the Premier League.
It was previously reported here at The Real EFL, that there was interest in the out-of-favour starlet from Italian clubs AS Roma and Lazio, as well as continued admiration from financially bound Everton for a deal worth a reported £25 million.
Football Insider is now reporting that Leeds are open to a deal away for the youngster, with Gnonto reportedly “desperate” to play regular first-team football again.
Whilst playing in the Championship, Gnonto has been dropped down to the Italian U21s setup after previously appearing thirteen times for the senior side.
Perhaps with the European Championships on the horizon, Gnonto hopes a series of first-team appearances and strong performances would be enough to get him on the plane and into the Azzuri’s team.
Writer’s View
Gnonto has been unimpressive off the bench this season, struggling to contribute hugely for Daniel Farke’s side, therefore if money was required to fund a late-season promotion push, a 500% return on the youngster would be a smart FFP decision for the club.
However, with Daniel James’ strong performances beginning to slow and 24 games left of the campaign, there is still time for Gnonto to stick around and fight for a place in the Leeds Starting XI.
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