The Athletic’s Phil Hay claims Leeds United and The 49ers could attempt to keep Willy Gnonto at Elland Road this summer by handing him a new contract – amid reports that the Whites rejected a £15m bid for him from Everton.
Gnonto, 19, remains hot property in this summer’s window after an impressive first season at Elland Road. That is even if it took Jesse Marsch a considerable amount of time to give him his debut, and Javi Gracia benching him.
Some reports suggested a £15m bid was made by Everton, while Hay says that while there were talks about a bid from Everton – nothing actually materialised. But, that Everton’s interest has been rebuffed by Leeds and The 49ers.
Now, Hay writes that Leeds and The 49ers could actually try to convince the Italy star to stay put at Leeds with the a new contract. It is unclear what Gnonto’s stance is on remaining at Leeds over the course of the next two months.
“The club genuinely see Gnonto as someone they can retain, potentially by tying him to a new contract. They have already knocked back an approach from top-flight Everton and will try to resist future contact about him,” Hay said.
Hay says 49ers could attempt to keep Gnonto at Leeds with new contract
You would say that of the players Leeds wanted rid of this summer, most have gone. Diego Llorente, Marc Roca, Robin Koch, Rasmus Kristensen, Brenden Aaronson. Big earners, offering little. Rodrigo’s wage was far too high.
He would have been kept but he needed to go to save Leeds cash. Junior Firpo and Illan Meslier probably fit in the same category. But Leeds will want to keep in-demand Gnonto, Jack Harrison, Tyler Adams and even Jack Harrison.
Gnonto has plenty of time on his side and could give Leeds a year in the Championship. But, he may feel that top-flight football improves his chances of attaining a place at Euro 2024. So, plenty to consider for the Leeds attacker.
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