Phil Hay says it is ‘not entirely obvious’ Everton have the funds to complete a move for Leeds United attacker Wilfried Gnonto.
Hay was speaking on the latest episode of the Square Ball Podcast, where he made the claim based on what he has heard from people who cover Everton.
Gnonto has made his position clear at Leeds in recent days after making himself unavailable for selection in the Carabao Cup tie against Shrewsbury Town on Wednesday, as per the Mail.
While Leeds have told him he is not for sale this summer, Gnonto has also ruled himself out of the trip to Birmigham City this afternoon with Fabrizio Romano, saying he has already agreed personal terms with Everton.
Romano also claimed that Gnonto is determined to seal a switch to Goodison Park before the end of the window and has grown frustrated at Leeds‘ reluctance to let him leave.
Hay shares what he has heard on Everton’s Gnonto pursuit
Despite Gnonto’s desire and the ongoing negotiations between the two clubs, Hay is unsure whether Everton will have the funds to complete a deal based on what he has heard.
He said: “The difficulty for Gnonto is I am not quite sure what his options are. Everton are really keen but every time lads who cover Everton speak to people at the club or discuss the situation there, it’s not entirely obvious Everton have the money to do it. He’s been linked to Burnley but that hasn’t moved forward.”
Regardless of Gnonto’s demands, Leeds should be holding out for as much as they can from Everton, or anybody else who may decide to come in for him.
It has been well documented that Everton have been slightly hamstrung financially this summer, and Leeds should show their situation no pity.
Gnonto has four years left to run on a contract that includes no relegation release clause, and based on the fees going around at the moment, Leeds can certainly hold out for in excess of £25 million.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
