Premier League clubs will wait until later in the transfer window to make a move for Leeds United winger Wilfried Gnonto, according to Football Insider.
The 20-year-old is widely expected to depart Elland Road this summer following the Whites’ failure to secure promotion to the Premier League. The play-off final defeat against Southampton last month means that sales are likely before the transfer window shuts at the end of August, with a number of major stars linked with a move away.
Top scorer Crysencio Summerville tops the bill, whilst youngster Archie Gray is being touted by a number of clubs both in the Premier League and in Europe. Gnonto is another who could raise significant funds, with another summer of speculation already in full flow.
Everton were keen to bring the Italian international to Goodison Park a year ago, failing with three bids which eventually totalled £25.7 million. This fell short of Leeds’ £30 million valuation, with the attacker also trying to force an exit.
An agreement was eventually reached which saw the player reintegrated into the squad, where he played a key role in Daniel Farke’s team. The Yorkshire outfit were one of the form team in the country from the turn of the year, pushing both Leicester City and Ipswich Town all the way in the race for the Championship title. Gnonto’s form was pivotal to this, where he hit seven goals during the second half of the campaign.
Everton are believed to be exploring a deal again this summer, whilst Crystal Palace have been named as potential suitors. Other clubs are also watching the situation closely, but it is claimed that they are willing to wait until later in the window to launch a bid.
According to reports, there is a belief that Leeds’ need to sell will see them lower their valuation as the transfer window draws to a close. This means that Daniel Farke could begin the new season with the former FC Zurich youngster. The play-off finalists kick off their campaign on August 10th, with League One champions Portsmouth visiting Elland Road.
Writer’s View
This news makes a lot of sense. Premier League clubs are well aware of Leeds’ financial situation and they will obviously be looking at taking advantage of that. Gnonto also set a precedent last summer when he tried to force a transfer, and it will be interesting to see how he handles the situation in the coming weeks.
Whilst talks of a ‘fire sale’ have been rumoured for several weeks, they will still be unlikely to significantly drop their price. Summerville is a player who will generate a big fee, whereas players who spent last season out on loan could also complete permanent moves away from the club. However, having Gnonto for the first few weeks of the season could be a real blessing as they look to start their campaign with a bang.
