Credit: Manh Tung

Jacob Raw

Sun 17 May 2026 6:40, UK

Wilfried Gnonto is in talks to join Bundesliga side Freiburg, with his Leeds United exit looking more likely than ever.

The Italian has had minimal game time under Daniel Farke this season, and his Elland Road departure has been mooted since the winter.

Freiburg are Europa League finalists, with the trophy up for grabs against Aston Villa on Wednesday, but regardless, they are looking to add to their squad this summer.

The German side are reportedly in talks with the Leeds star, who could leave the Whites on either a permanent deal or a loan move that contains an obligation to buy.

Leeds have a decision to make with Gnonto, but given what is on the table, their lives have been made a whole lot easier.

Leeds must avoid Wilfried Gnonto loan exit, sale is required

Leeds will need to raise funds this summer, and Gnonto has emerged as a key asset for the 49ers to offload in order to free up money to pursue other targets.

The winger has made 145 appearances for the Whites in total, and is a divisive figure in LS11, but many would be sad to see him go.

The 22-year-old still looks to have a bright future ahead of him, but as his age, he needs to be getting regular minutes.

As reported by Florian Plettenberg, Freiburg are pushing to sign Gnonto, with talks between Leeds and the player’s management already underway.

The Whites are said to be open to both a sale and a loan with an obligation to buy, but it would be in the 49ers’ best interest to push for the former.

A permanent sale is a no-brainer decision for Leeds to make, as loaning him out with any uncertain clauses would be risky for several reasons.

Leeds could risk Jack Harrison issue with Gnonto

Leeds loaned out Jack Harrison to Fiorentina this season, inserting a buy option for the Italian side to trigger for £6million.

It looks highly unlikely that the Whites will see that £6m windfall come their way, as all they have benefited from the move is slight wage relief.

Harrison’s value has decreased while away from Elland Road, which makes things even more complicated on what to do with him this summer.

To avoid the same risk with Gnonto, Leeds should cash in now, given they have no idea how a potential loan could pan out.