Leeds United transfer exit update after Everton links to Willy Gnonto as Elland Road contract talks advance – Fabrizio Romano
Fabrizio Romano is “not aware of any concrete talks” for Willy Gnonto to leave Leeds United despite “rumours” linking him to Everton and Lazio.
The Italian journalist reported in his 24 January Daily Briefing that new contract discussions with the 20-year-old are “advancing well” at Elland Road and the club is “optimistic” of getting a deal done.
Gnonto was refused a move to Goodison Park in the summer despite multiple bids arriving, while Gazzetta dello Sport claimed on 22 January that the attacker was a Lazio option with the Whites supposedly looking to let him go on a loan-to-buy deal.
That was despite developments back in England suggesting that Leeds United have no intention of losing the Italy international, nor does he apparently want to go.
No danger
Romano’s update says that there are no discussions with other clubs “yet” as if a January departure can’t be entirely ruled out, but the Whites are certainly looking confident.
Leeds United made pretty clear what they thought of an exit when they rejected all offers for Gnonto back in the summer, and while that stance could have softened in the months since given he hasn’t featured heavily it looks like the club haven’t wavered.
Although they weren’t moved when the winger wanted to go last time around it seems that only the player’s view could have an effect on a possible exit now, or indeed the new deal.
Were big money on the table that could finance multiple additions this month perhaps there would be a decision to be made.
But unless the 49ers or profit and sustainability considerations require sales to bring anyone in there still isn’t a strong argument to weaken the attacking options at this stage.
All indications are that a new deal is on the cards imminently and there is no major threat of an exit, so with the defence having been depleted by exits and a stand-off between Daniel Farke and Charlie Cresswell any transfer market attentions should surely be directed towards that.
In other Leeds United news, another defender who has started for the first-team this season is now expected to leave before the transfer deadline.
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