Leeds United attacker Wilfried Gnonto has agreed personal terms on a five-year-deal with Everton ahead of a potential transfer.
That is according to Fabrizio Romano, who says his agreement with Everton is why Gnonto made himself unavailable for Leeds’ clash with Shrewsbury Town on Wednesday.
He also claims Gnonto has made it his priority to move to Goodison Park since last month, despite reports on the contrary suggesting he had no interest in making the switch.
Gnonto started Leeds’ Championship opener with Cardiff City on Sunday but asked manager Daniel Farke to be left out of the squad completely for the Carabao Cup tie.
Farke confirmed after the game that it was not down to an injury problem, with Romano now confirming the reason for his wish not to play.
Romano shares why Gnonto refused to play for Leeds against Shrewsbury
Everton have already had a £15 million bid turned down by Leeds last month and since then, have not returned with a fresh offer.
However, after this latest ploy from Gnonto, it appears as though Everton are now ready to step up their pursuit, with Romano suggesting the Toffees are now ‘on it’.
Gnonto still has four years left to run on his contract at Elland Road and remains a player San Francisco 49ers Enterprises are keen to keep.
With no relegation release clause, Leeds must look to fleece Everton of every penny possible if they are indeed going to move forward with a sale.
Given the love Leeds fans have showed Gnonto in the 12 months he has been here, this would be a very sour way to end things.
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