Leeds United are reportedly close to handing Willy Gnonto a new contract at Elland Road and now Fabrizio Romano has delivered an update on the club’s move to keep him – it could be “hours”.
Gnonto, 20, has endured a difficult season until this point. It comes after refusing to play in the summer as he tried in vain to get a move away from Elland Road. He apologised, and returned to the Leeds side.
But, the Italy star has struggled to start. Cree Summerville and Dan James are on fire – with Gnonto scoring just one goal all season. His future up in the air has seemed to affect his form on the pitch.
The 49ers were said to be open to his exit, with Serie A clubs Fiorentina, Lazio and Roma keen. In the Premier League, both Fulham and West Ham have taken a look at landing Gnonto during January.
However, it was then reported Leeds were close to a new deal. Graeme Bailey told LeedsUnited.News last week that a deal had been agreed in principle. Now, Romano has given an update to Give Me Sport.
“Leeds’ priority will be to extend Gnonto’s contract. This is getting closer and would be fantastic news for Leeds. They’re pushing for the contract to be signed in the next hours or days. This is their priority.”
Fabrizio Romano says Willy Gnonto deal could be done in hours
It might seem mad that less than six months after refusing to play in three games for the club, Gnonto is signing a new deal. He does not look like the player that broke onto the scene in the Premier League.
But it is fair to assume that the doubt hanging over his head right now is likely to play a key role in his form on the pitch. Remove that, by handing him a new deal, could see Leeds allow Gnonto to blossom.
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