BBC pundit reacts as Phil Hay shares update on Everton transfer links to Leeds United ace Wilfried Gnonto
Carlton Palmer believes that it will take Everton £20million-£25million if they are to sign Leeds United attacker Wilfried Gnonto this summer.
The Athletic’s Phil Hay said on The Square Ball podcast on Tuesday (18 July, 11m 50s) that the Whites had knocked off initial interest from the Toffees in the Italy international.
The Toffees are keen on signing a wide player this summer and have identified the 19-year-old as one of their top targets.
Palmer, a BBC pundit, told Give Me Sport (20 July), “Leeds United have rejected a fee of around £15million from Everton for their exciting Italian winger Wilfried Gnonto.
“Leeds have told Everton in no uncertain terms they do not want to sell the young starlet.
“Gnonto, only 19, was one of the bright sparks in an otherwise disappointing season for Leeds United.
“Leeds United’s resolve may be tested, but it will take a bid in excess of £20-25million for them to budge.”
No deal
The offer really has to be out of this world for the Whites hierarchy to consider the sale of their attacker.
He does not have relegation clauses that allow him to leave on loan as some of the other players do.
This gives Leeds the upper hand in negotiations even though they will be playing in the Championship next season.
Thus far, Gnonto has not burned any bridges behind the scenes or handed in a transfer request so he may be convinced to stay.
It remains to be seen if Everton do come in with another offer as the possibility of that is always there.
That being said, they aren’t in the best situation financially so Leeds can quote a higher fee that blows them out of the transfer race.