Willy Gnonto makes Everton transfer decision, agent informed as bid tabled for Leeds United star
Leeds United winger Willy Gnonto has informed his agent that a move to Everton is not appealing to him, according to TEAMtalk.
The website reported on 2 August that a switch to Merseyside is not desired despite Everton making a £20million-plus bid on 17 July [Sport Mediaset], but a move to his native Italy to join the Serie A may still be on the cards.
Gnonto has been linked with the Toffees throughout the summer following Leeds’ relegation from the Premier League, but the likes of Juventus and Atalanta could be more appealing for the 19-year-old.
Time to move on
This deal just feels slightly out of reach for all parties. Gnonto himself is not thrilled by the prospect of joining the Merseyside outfit, and with Champions League quality sides vying for your signature, it is easy to understand the Italian’s feelings here.
he made his quality known despite performing in a poor Leeds side, with his “lightning” acceleration and terrific skill.
However, Everton will feel frustrated that such a dynamic and high-potential player could have been secured but may take solace in the fact that their attack looks to be on the mend. Dominic Calvert-Lewin will look to get back to goal-scoring ways after an underwhelming campaign last season.
Meanwhile, with the addition of Arnaut Danjuma on loan from Villarreal and a deal for Sporting Lisbon’s Youssef Chermiti edging closer and closer [O Jogo], the Toffees should perhaps target other needed areas of improvement for the remainder of the window.
That being said, the Toffees’ attention has reportedly shifted from Gnonto to Southampton’s attacker Kamaldeen Sulemana [Sky Sports] after they deemed the Leeds man unattainable.
If Gnonto’s feelings about joining Everton are true, then the club should not spend any more valuable time trying to pursue him. Time is of the essence, and Gnonto will no doubt be looking to move from Leeds as quickly as possible so he can settle at whichever new club he signs for.
In other Everton news, the Toffees are waiting for a fresh bid for a star attacker from Premier League rivals Fulham.