Burnley are reportedly looking at a possible move for Leeds United teen Willy Gnonto over the course of the next few weeks – and while a move may be unlikely, such interest could help Leeds strike a deal to land Charlie Taylor.
Gnonto, 19, started on Sunday as Leeds looked to get off to a winning start against Cardiff – coming into the XI under Daniel Farke for the first time, having been on the bench during pre-season. He continues to be targeted.
The Telegraph claim Vincent Kompany has turned his attention to Gnonto in an attempt to lure the Italy star to Burnley. Everton have of course shown interest, but had a fee of £15m rejected. Leeds may feel they need to sell.
The club require new signings and selling a player like Gnonto or Tyler Adams immediately gives Leeds some cash to flutter. Burnley’s interest in Gnonto gives Leeds the chance to solve another issue – in a player-plus-cash deal.
Burnley looking at Gnonto: Could help Leeds strike deal to land Taylor
Phil Hay has told The Square Ball’s podcast that Leeds United would like to sign 29-year-old Taylor. A move that would see Taylor return to Elland Road, six years after leaving. A player that has already played 104 times for Leeds.
Leeds have failed to replace Taylor since his £5m move in 2017. Barry Douglas, Gjanni Alioski, Laurens De Bock and now, Junior Firpo. None have been able to replace Taylor on a regular basis, or well enough. Stuart Dallas is unfit.
He is preferred in midfield, anyway. So, Leeds need a left-back. Taylor was in and out of the Burnley side that won promotion back to the Premier League last season – and has entered the final 12 months of his deal at Turf Moor.
Taylor solves our need for a left-back. He knows Leeds, has promotion experience from the Championship and he would be keen on a move to Leeds. If Gnonto is going to go, selling to Burnley for cash and Taylor makes sense.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
