Leeds United told they are in a strong position to keep player unless clubs ‘break the bank’

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Leeds United surprised fans the day after the deadline day when ahead of beating Hull City, the club announced a new four-year deal for Wilfried Gnonto.

The 20-year-old had been strongly linked with a move in the summer. But contrary to reports, the Italy star always wanted to stay at Elland Road, a year on from refusing to play in order to force a departure.

Despite his best mate leaving in Crysencio Summerville, Gnonto has not chosen to leave Leeds. Instead, he has opted to take on Summerville’s main-man persona at Leeds and drive The Whites to promotion.

However, his commitment to Leeds has not stopped clubs showing interest even after the close of the transfer window. Serie A duo Genoa and Parma want Gnonto and are eyeing a move ahead of January.

• READ MORE: Leeds fans delighted with what they saw from Gnonto on Tuesday

Carlton Palmer says Leeds will keep Wilfried Gnonto

Carlton Palmer discussed the interest of Parma and Genoa in Gnonto on Football League World, and the former Leeds midfielder thinks that thanks to his new contract, Leeds are in a strong position to keep him.

“Leeds are in a very, very strong position. He’s signed a new contract until 2028. So, the Serie A duo will have to come up with an awful lot of money for Daniel Farke to part company with Willy Gnonto,” he said.

“It’s always a worry when these types of rumours start swirling, we know there’s going to be plenty of interest in Gnonto, but he will be hoping to play with Leeds back in the Premier League next season.

“It’s important that they keep hold of him. It shows Gnonto’s commitment to the club, and Leeds United’s to him, so I don’t think it’s a major concern unless these clubs are prepared to break the bank to get him.”

What club sources say about a release clause in Gnonto deal

The release clause played havoc for Leeds in the summer. It forced The Whites into the sale of Georginio Rutter to Brighton when the club had previously rejected offers from Brighton worth £29m and £35m.

Eventually, his £40m clause was activated and off the Frenchman went. Archie Gray went to Tottenham and Crysencio Summerville joined West Ham for release clauses, while loan clauses remained in deals.

Jack Harrison and Rasmus Kristensen were allowed to go on loan again. But sources at Leeds have said that actually, there is no release clause in Gnonto’s new Leeds deal which will be a relief for Leeds fans.