Willy Gnonto finished at Leeds United as ‘cash in’ message sent amid latest exit rumour
Former Leeds United midfielder David Norris insists the club should still sell Wilfried Gnonto amid a rise in the number of managers interested.
Gnonto started off last season in the Championship by infamously refusing to play for the club before racking up eight goals and three assists in 39 league games (22 starts).
The 20-year-old was not selected by Italy for Euro 2024 and has now reportedly made clear he wishes to leave Elland Road [The Boot Room, 16 July], with a number of Premier League clubs including Newcastle United and Everton chasing his signature.
Norris, who represented the Whites between 2012 and 2015, exclusively told MOT Leeds News: “I do still see Gnonto leaving. He kicked up a fuss last year and then did okay, but only really in fits and starts.
“I think his mind was maybe a little elsewhere, and he had people questioning his character.
“I still back him to go and do well because he is a good player, but at the same time I think his time at Leeds is done and the club should cash in.”
Leeds United chapter could be done for Gnonto
With an increasing number of avenues looking to point to the exit door for Gnonto, it will be interesting for Leeds’ young winger where he could be playing his football next season.
Everton’s pursuit of fellow Championship hotshot Jaden Philogene was unsuccessful which now sees the Toffees averting their gaze towards the 13-cap Italian.
The imminent sale of Amadou Onana to Aston Villa frees up £50m for Sean Dyche’s side, though it’s unclear how much will be delegated to squad improvements following the club’s recent takeover collapse.
Then there is Newcastle [TEAMtalk, 15 July], who are seeking a long-term replacement for Saudi-bound Miguel Almiron and who have also just sold youngster Yankuba Minteh to Brighton for a £33m fee.
Gnonto feels he is now ready for the Premier League again and probably has a feeling in his mind he has done Leeds a favour by staying a year longer than he intended, but the next move has to be right for his career both in the top flight and to force himself back into international reckoning.
In other Leeds news, a controversial action from the club towards its travelling away supporters.
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