Sport nationAston Villa has reportedly pulled out of the race to sign Leeds United winger Wilfried Gnonto, despite being linked with a £20-25m move for the Italian youngster. Villa’s interest in Gnonto has cooled following their £18m signing of Jaden Philogene from Hull City, leaving Everton as the frontrunners to land the 20-year-old.
Gnonto was a key player in Leeds United’s promotion push last season, and his departure would be a significant blow to Daniel Farke’s side. Leeds have already lost Archie Gray and Glen Kamara this summer, and the potential exit of Crysencio Summerville for £40m would further weaken their squad.
Everton manager Sean Dyche has made contact with Leeds about Gnonto, but no deal has been agreed upon yet. The Toffees are keen to strengthen their squad after a disappointing season, and Gnonto’s pace and skill on the wing would be a valuable addition.
Leeds United are facing a challenging summer transfer window, with several players leaving the club and only Joe Rodon and Joe Rothwell arriving as outfield signings. Brenden Aaronson will return to the squad after a loan spell at Union Berlin, but the Whites need to bolster their midfield options after the departures of Kamara and Gray.
The club has rejected a £30m bid for Georginio Rutter, and the exits of key players have left Farke with a thin squad. With only three and a half weeks until the new Championship season begins, Leeds must act quickly to strengthen their squad and prepare for a promotion push.
In other news, Leeds United youngster has signed a first professional contract with the club, a promising development for the Whites’ future. However, the immediate focus remains on strengthening the first team and ensuring a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
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Austute Man