Leeds United transfer updates: Monday medical due for Marc Roca as Willy Gnonto talks continue with Everton after £15m bid
Talks are “ongoing” between Leeds United and Everton over Willy Gnonto as the Italian could yet follow Marc Roca through the exit at Elland Road, Ryan Taylor reports.
The Spanish midfielder touched down in Seville on Sunday night (16 July) to complete his loan move to Real Betis, which has been expected for some weeks, with medical testing due the following day.
That development came the same day that the Daily Mail had reported a £15million permanent bid from Goodison Park for Gnonto was rejected as he is not for sale, but it appears the prospects of the teenager leaving as well are not over.
Reporting via Twitter late on Sunday evening Express journalist Taylor shared a transfer update, saying: “Marc Roca in Seville to sign for Real Betis on loan with option to buy.
“Spanish midfielder will undergo medical on Monday. Deal has been in works as far back as May as reported below.
“Talks also ongoing between Everton & Leeds for Wilfried Gnonto.”
Danger continues
Roca leaving won’t cause great anguish among Leeds United supporters, but if Gnonto is to go too it might, especially as it becomes increasingly clear that the club believe they might keep him.
With the transfer budget at Everton not thought to be extensive it certainly looks like they are keen to land the Italy international if they are ready to put not-insignificant money on the table.
The £15m offer would represent close to four times what the Whites paid FC Zurich last September, and with minimal transfer income from those who have left so far this summer that might be attractive.
But the 49ers clearly see the 19-year-old as one of the key men in the current squad who could be built around for the promotion push, so it looks like they aren’t going to make it easy.
Gnonto’s own perspective is ultimately going to be crucial, and so far he appears not to have been angling for the exit since relegation.
However, if talks are “ongoing” despite the bid being rejected it suggests both that Everton believe they can get him, and that the Whites would actually be prepared to let him go for the right price.
Roca’s move away from Elland Road this summer should be wrapped up within days, but the wrangling over Gnonto looks set to run on for some time yet.
In other Leeds United news, one of Gnonto’s important teammates is seen has emerged as more likely to stay this summer.