EXCLUSIVE: Gnonto pushes for Everton move as Leeds reneges on stance

Updated: 14 Aug 2023 20:52 BST
3 min read

Wilfried Gnonto is continuing to push for a move to Everton and there is an expectation that Leeds will eventually lower their asking price.

FootballTransfers revealed the club’s interest in Gnonto two months ago and we have been told that the Italian remains hopeful of finding a new home at Finch Farm training ground. His agents have had a dialogue with Everton as far back as the tail-end of last season.

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Gnonto is after game-time for his development and Sean Dyche is a big fan of his potential - there is also a feeling a deal could be struck despite Leeds’ stance of wanting £25million.

Demarai Gray is expected to leave for Fulham or Crystal Palace and this will offer Everton space in funds to agree a deal with Leeds. Personal terms have been agreed in principle.

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Gnonto refused to play in Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Birmingham City and asked not to be considered to play for Leeds against Shrewsbury Town in the Carabao Cup.

The 19-year-old is hopeful of gaining a return to the Premier League in a bid to earn a spot in Italy’s national squad for the European Championship next summer.

Eveton in talks with Jack Harrison and Wilfried Gnonto of Leeds. Also admirers of former Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles but so are a number of Premier League sides. @Transfersdotcom https://t.co/MrCEWYn2YW
— Jacque Talbot (@jac_talbot) June 18, 2023

Leeds reconsider stance

Last week, Leeds released a statement confirming that Gnonto would not be sold this summer, but his refusal to play will eventually force their hand, it is thought.

"Earlier this week, Willy Gnonto and his representatives were informed by the club that he would not be sold this summer," the statement read. But we understand that Gnonto is putting pressure on the club who have now reneged on letting him leave.

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Jack Harrison has already left for Everton on a season-long loan, following FootballTransfers’ exclusive story which detailed that talks took place.

Everton triggered a clause in the 26-year-old’s contract. The former Manchester City attacker undertook a medical at Finch Farm on Sunday.

The Toffees are also strongly considering a move for Leicester City's Patson Daka. It is our understanding that a move for Beto, meanwhile, is not as advanced as other outlets have claimed.