A report from Italian media outlet Il Giorno claims Leeds United have set a price tag for interested clubs to sign Willy Gnonto this summer – informing those keen that they will have to part with a fee of £44million to land the teenager.
Gnonto, 19, has starred for Leeds. Brought to Elland Road as an unknown from Swiss side Zurich, he cost less than Darko Gyabi at just £4million. But with Italy caps under his belt, there was hope he would have an instant impact.
It took him two months to break into the Leeds side – something which he has bemoaned of late. But coming on in the win over Liverpool and contributing to Cree Summerville’s winner, he has not looked back – playing 20 times.
Plenty of clubs have been linked this week. The likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Juventus, AC Milan and Jose Mourinho’s Roma. Now, Leeds have named their price as they look to put off suitors – according to Il Giorno.
It is said Leeds want a fee of £44m. Now, this comes from a report discussing interest from Atalanta. It might be that Leeds want more cash, should Premier League clubs make their move – given they are selling to a League rival.
Italian media claim Leeds have set Gnonto price tag at £44million
A similar fee, then, to the kind of figures Leeds brought in for Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha. Phillips went to Man City for £42million plus £3million in add-ons. Then Raphinha, to Barcelona, for £45million up front – and £5m add-ons.
It is unclear how correct the report from Il Giorno is. Of course, Gnonto could add a few more millions to his value before the end of the season by scoring three or four more goals in a Leeds shirt. Nothing is set in stone.
But clearly, Leeds are unwilling to let Gnonto go for anything on the cheap even though he was signed for just £4m less than a year ago. Certainly, the £40m+ fee will deter interested Italian clubs – who may struggle to pay it.
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