Leeds United are reportedly open to accepting offers for Wilfried Gnonto in the January transfer window to boost their winter transfer budget, as reported by Football Insider. The decision to potentially sell Gnonto comes as the club seeks additional funds following their relegation to the Championship.
Gnonto, the Italian winger, joined Leeds for £4 million on transfer deadline day in 2022 and made a notable impact in the Premier League, featuring in 24 league matches. He contributed two goals and four assists, including a key assist in a comeback win against Bournemouth and a goal within 55 seconds against Manchester United.
Following Leeds’ relegation, Everton expressed interest in signing Gnonto, and the 20-year-old refused to play for Leeds in the hope of securing a move to Merseyside. Despite the transfer window closing with Gnonto remaining at Leeds, he has received limited opportunities under manager Daniel Farke, starting only once and making substitute appearances in other games.
Interest from Italian clubs AS Roma and Lazio, as well as ongoing admiration from Everton for a potential £25 million deal, has been previously reported. According to the latest update from Football Insider, Leeds is now open to a deal for Gnonto, who is described as “desperate” to secure regular first-team football.
Gnonto has seen a reduction in playing time and has dropped down to the Italian U21s setup while in the Championship. With the European Championships approaching, it is suggested that Gnonto may seek more playing time to enhance his chances of making the Italy national team.
The report suggests that, considering Gnonto’s limited impact off the bench this season, Leeds might view a potential sale as a smart Financial Fair Play (FFP) decision, providing a significant return on the initial investment. However, the writer acknowledges that there is still time for Gnonto to compete for a spot in the starting XI, especially with 24 games left in the campaign.
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