Everton yet to match Leeds United valuation of Wilfried Gnonto after transfer news
Everton are yet to match the Leeds United valuation of Wilfried Gnonto after reports emerged that the Toffees are not giving up hope to sign him, according to Phil Hay.
Writing on The Athletic’s live transfer deadline day blog (1 September, 2:04pm), Hay reports that Leeds are unlikely to be involved in any more transfer business before Friday’s 11pm deadline, and any developments would depend on what happens in the next few hours with Gnonto, Luis Sinisterra and Crysencio Summerville.
Writing on his personal Twitter account (1 September), Sky Sports journalist Lyall Thomas reported that Everton have returned for talks and are “not giving up” on signing the Italy international, despite him retracting his exit request.
However, according to Hay, the Blues are yet to match his valuation which could well mean he stays at Elland Road beyond Friday’s deadline.
He wrote: “As it stands, Everton haven’t met Leeds’ valuation of Gnonto and an approach from Burnley for Summerville was knocked back yesterday. So very much as-you-were for now…”
Gruelling last hours
With Farke reintegrating him into his squad, it suggests that all is forgiven and Gnonto will be silly to break that trust again with just hours remaining before the transfer deadline.
However, it certainly seems as if Everton aren’t giving up hope, with the Italian international still harbouring ambitions to play in the Premier League this season.
It seems his agents are trying to push through a move with the Italian’s wish to seal a Premier League return not going away, but Leeds’ stance is simple, their mega valuation must be met.
With Everton proving hesitant to match it, Gnonto is now certain to be an Elland Road player past the 11pm deadline which spells great news for Farke and the Leeds United fanbase who are desperate to keep their prized asset in order to fulfil their promotion ambitions come May.
With the German boss wanting to move forward with his plans for the club having bolstered his squad in the last 48 hours with the likes of Glen Kamara and Djed Spence coming through the doors, what a major boost it would be should Leeds manage to keep Gnonto, Sinisterra and Summerville.
Championship title favourites?
In other Leeds news, talks on with Serie A giants to sign international winger in last-gasp deal.