Peter Lynch

Thu 6 April 2023 8:06, UK

Leeds United “100% trust” Wilfried Gnonto for “present and future” amid speculation linking him with an exit from Elland Road, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The exciting winger has hit the ground running in his first season in English football following his summer move from FC Zurich.

But his future remains up in the air amid links to a return to Italy, with Juventus, AS Roma, AC Milan, Napoli and Atalanta all keeping an eye on his progress [90min].

“I’m sure Leeds trust Wilfried Gnonto for present and future, despite some recent speculation over his future,” Romano wrote for Caught Offside.

“Of course the coach situation will be crucial to understand what’s next for Gnonto, but the club and board 100% trust him.”

Uncertain future

The presence or indeed lack of presence of Javi Gracia in the Leeds dugout could be key to Gnonto’s Leeds future, with the manager currently in charge on a flexible contract.

But the more pressing issue is, of course, the fear of relegation, with the Yorkshire outfit seemingly destined to lose their young winger should they drop back down to the Championship.

Gnonto has impressed at left wing for Leeds this season, and while he will want to add more goals and assists to his game, he has shown enough to prove he is a talent that has a very bright future in the game.

Previously playing for Inter Milan in his youth and now playing for the Italian national team, a summer move to Italy would not be a surprise at all, but there are also a handful of Premier League clubs who could offer a sizeable fee to keep the attacker in England for another year.

A long-term stay at Elland Road should definitely not be ruled out if Leeds remain in the top flight, but Gnonto, despite being only 19, will want assurances such as regular first team football.

In other Leeds United news, Paul Robinson believes the Whites may need to “rethink” their strategy on young players after Mateusz Bogusz was allowed to join LAFC on a permanent deal.