Peter Lynch

Fri 14 July 2023 13:10, UK

Sources close to Leeds United say that Wilfried Gnonto is on an “affordable wage” despite the club’s relegation from the Premier League, according to the Liverpool Echo.

The publication noted that those circumstances mean that Everton will have to “work hard” to persuade the winger to come to Goodison Park.

Gnonto joined Leeds from FC Zurich last summer, with the 19-year-old making 28 appearances in all competitions in his debut season at the club.

“On Gnonto, Leeds United are – on the surface at least – resistant to a move,” according to the Liverpool Echo. “The cards are stacked in the club’s favour as far as decision-makers there are concerned.

“He is under contract and sources close to the club say he is on what is deemed to be an affordable wage despite relegation.

“This does not mean a deal would be impossible. Just that Everton would have to work hard to get there.”

Uncertain future

There is every chance that Gnonto could stay at Elland Road for another season, with the Whites understandably keen to keep hold of their young star for as long as possible.

He didn’t exactly steal the headlines in the final stages of the most recent Premier League campaign, with the teenager spending plenty of time on the bench, watching on as his club were relegated to the Championship.

But his early displays in white may have been enough to convince Everton to try and bring him to Merseyside this summer.

At 19, Gnonto can only get better, with the player definitely eager to improve on his tallies of four goals and four assists from last time out.

He could do that with an important role under Sean Dyche, whose no-nonsense approach could provide a good development pathway for the young attacker.

Everton may, however, find themselves in a battle for Gnonto’s services in the coming weeks, with the winger certainly able to improve a lot of clubs.

In other Leeds United news, £10million exit news has emerged for one Premier League player wanted by the Elland Road club.