Phil Hay shares brand new Willy Gnonto update for Leeds v Birmingham
Leeds United forward Willy Gnonto has returned to training ahead of the clash with Birmingham City on 12 August, and he remains in Daniel Farke’s plans, according to Phil Hay.
The Athletic journalist shared on 10 August that, having been left out of the Leeds squad for their Carabao Cup fixture against Shrewsbury due to transfer interest, Gnonto is expected to be in the squad for the Birmingham game, with the club still very resistant to his sale.
Gnonto has received interest in his signature from across Europe and the Premier League following Leeds’ relegation from the Premier League and seemed to be forcing a move before the update provided by Farke.
A complex situation
Leeds have found themselves in a complex situation with Gnonto. He is undoubtedly their prized asset, which is both why he is so sought after by top clubs and also why Leeds are so keen to keep him at Elland Road this season.
However, if he is to go on strike and miss key fixtures, they must treat the situation as seriously as it is proving itself to be. The club’s reluctance to sell is understandable, but should the player force a move, they will be capable of finding an adequate replacement with the money the sale brings in.
Gnonto has attracted the strongest interest from Inter Milan and Everton this summer, while he has suitors elsewhere with Frankfurt and Crystal Palace also linked. A move to Inter would give him to an opportunity to join the club he left as an academy prospect and to play Champions League football.
Everton, however, may be offering the teenager another crack at Premier League football. It could be argued at Leeds that he may well get the same opportunity next season if he sticks around to help Leeds achieve promotion.
In other Leeds United news, Fabrizio Romano has given a ‘Here we go!’ verdict to Leeds exit.