Leeds United have been urged to sell one of Daniel Farke’s best players this summer by Carlton Palmer, who thinks a potential deal suits all parties involved.
The Whites have already sold six players this summer in the form of Archie Gray, Glen Kamara, Marc Roca, Charlie Cresswell, Diego Llorente and Kris Klaesson. Plenty more are likely before the summer deadline.
The likes of Crysencio Summerville, Junior Firpo, Illan Meslier and others continue to attract interest ahead of the opener against Portsmouth at Elland Road on August 10. As does, a possible exit for Willy Gnonto.
The Italy ace struggled to show his best last season but he remains a player of just 20 with huge potential, and Italy caps already to his name. A return to the Premier League looks like it is getting closer and closer.
Carlton Palmer urges Leeds to sell Willy Gnonto to Everton
Everton tried to sign Gnonto last summer and the winger even refused to play in three game sin a bid to force a transfer. But Leeds remained firm, and prevented a sale as they refused to bow down to Gnonto.
This time around, it is different. While the sale of Gray has prevented the need for any drastic action in terms of players leaving, Leeds will still if the price is right and Gnonto would go if his asking price is met.
Reports say that Everton are ‘progressing well’ in talks to sign Gnonto for an initial £20m, plus £5m more in add-ons. Former Leeds midfielder Palmer told Football League World it is a deal that suits all parties.
“He has a tremendous future ahead of him, a seriously talented player. Everton went after him before, and weren’t able to get him. So, a 20-year-old at a signing of £25m, I think it’s good business,” Palmer said.
“Still 20, so this would represent a good bit of business by Leeds, who paid just £3.8m for Gnonto and a good bit of business by Everton. Good business by Leeds, further reducing their wage bill,” Palmer added.
Selling Gnonto for a £25m fee would be incredible business
Following the last 12 months, Gnonto has largely struggled. His decision to refuse to play was met with distant by Daniel Farke, benching him and allowing Dan James to flourish in the first half of the season.
When he did come into the side in the second half, he only ever showed glimpses. His left-footed goal to beat Bristol City 1-0, springs to mind. But there was not enough of those moments for Gnonto to impress.
If Leeds get a fee of £25m, even if only £20m is an initial payment, then it is great business. In the eyes of Profit & Sustainability Rules too, Leeds are ticking all the boxes by selling Gnonto for so much cash.
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