Leeds United

Leeds United

Championship

Leeds transfer disaster possible as attacker’s old club spy shock £8.6m relegation discount

Jack Harrison and Wilfried Gnonto

Leeds United are at risk of losing Willy Gnonto to a club back in his native Italy this summer – and perhaps to one he has already been at, per the latest reports.

Gnonto joined Leeds from FC Zurich last summer and initially made a good impression before gametime became harder to come by. After their relegation to the Championship, there are growing fears about other clubs trying to prise Gnonto away from Leeds this summer.

Some clubs could lift him back into the Premier League, such as Arsenal, Manchester City or Chelsea. But there have also been suggestions that Gnonto could finally get his chance to debut in Serie A.

The attacker previously left Inter after eight years in their academy in order to progress his senior career in Switzerland with Zurich.

Now, Inter Live is indicating that the Nerazzurri would be willing to give Gnonto a second chance. Also in contention to take him back to Italy are their rivals, Juventus.

Interestingly, a belief is growing among Gnonto’s suitors that he might be available for a better price because of the fate Leeds have suffered. Per the report, Inter think they can get Gnonto back for €10m (£8.6m).

Given that Gnonto still has a contract at Elland Road until 2027, it seems optimistic from Inter’s part that Leeds would give him away that cheaply. Even the pre-relegation asking price of €15m (£12.9m) mentioned in the report might be on the low side.

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However, after qualifying for the Champions League, Inter could be ready to try their luck by making a move for Gnonto.

Juventus represent strong competition, though, even after their points deduction meant they could only make it to the Europa Conference League for next season.

Leeds bracing themselves for Gnonto bids

Leeds may simply have to hold firm if anyone comes in with a bid for Gnonto that is below their valuation.

During his debut season in English football, the teenager scored four goals and provided the same number of assists from 28 appearances in all competitions.

Now with 10 caps for the senior Italy national team to his name, the idea of him finally getting a chance in Serie A one day is going to linger. But he has opened up a market for himself in the Premier League thanks to his performances with Leeds.

Therefore, Gnonto will be able to keep his options open as Leeds prepare for their return to the Championship, which he could yet be part of after settling in well in West Yorkshire.

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