Premier League clubs are interested in Leeds United’s young Italian wideman.
Aston Villa apparently decided not to pursue any interest in Leeds United player Willy Gnonto. The Italian has been the focus of much transfer speculation this week, with Everton and Newcastle United reportedly considering bids.
Leeds have already lost Archie Gray and Glen Kamara in recent weeks, with Crysencio Summerville perhaps leaving in a £40 million deal, so losing Gonnto would be less than ideal for Daniel Farke. The 20-year-old was a key player in last season’s promotion drive and will be crucial in hopes of securing a Premier League spot next May.
Villa are preparing to transfer French winger Moussa Diaby, who is expected to join Saudi club Al Ittihad for £60 million. That would give Unai Emery a big transfer budget to work with, with Gnonto expected to be available for approximately £20-25 million.
However, the signing of Jaden Philogene from Hull City for £18 million appears to have ended Aston Villa’s interest in Gnonto, with Everton currently leading the hunt. According to reports, Sean Dyche’s team has signed a contract with Leeds for the winger, but no agreement has been reached.
Leeds must decide how many players they can afford to lose this summer, with Joe Rodon and Joe Rothwell the only outfield acquisitions so far. Brenden Aaronson will return to Daniel Farke’s squad after spending a year on loan at Union Berlin, but the roster is looking thin, especially if Summerville and Gnonto go.
The Whites rejected a £30 million bid for Georginio Rutter, but the departures of Kamara and Gray have left Farke short on midfield options. There are only three and a half weeks until the new Championship season begins when Portsmouth visits Elland Road, with Leeds beginning their pre-season program against Harrogate Town on Friday night.
