Everton FC Transfer News: Leeds United’s Willy Gnonto Move Uncertain as Crysencio Summerville Nears West Ham Switch
The summer transfer window is in full swing, and Everton FC is actively seeking to bolster their squad ahead of the new season. One player who has been on the Toffees’ radar is Leeds United winger Willy Gnonto. However, the Italian’s move to Goodison Park may be in jeopardy due to Leeds’ impending sale of Crysencio Summerville to West Ham United.
Summerville, the Championship Player of the Season, is set to undergo a medical at West Ham today after a £25 million fee plus add-ons was agreed. His departure could significantly impact Everton’s chances of signing Gnonto, who scored nine goals and created three assists for Leeds last season.
Everton manager Sean Dyche is keen to add another wide player with pace to his squad, but Leeds’ sale of Summerville may embolden them to keep Gnonto. Leeds boss Daniel Farke hinted that the club may need to make smart decisions due to financial constraints, but expressed hope that their best players would stay.
“We know that we’re not PSG or Real Madrid who can afford each and every player, but we spoke quite open and honest about it that also perhaps decisions in the past have forced us into situations right now where we have to think about the financial situation and being within the rules,” Farke said via the Yorkshire Evening Post.
The Toffees have already signed Jack Harrison on loan from Leeds and Jesper Lindstrom on a season-long loan from Napoli. However, the potential loss of Gnonto to another club may force them to explore alternative transfer targets.
Gnonto’s situation is complex, with Leeds having rejected two bids from Everton last summer. The Italian also handed in a transfer request, but Leeds remained resolute in their determination to keep him. Despite being relegated from the Premier League, Leeds has maintained their stance, and Gnonto’s future remains uncertain.
Everton’s interest in Gnonto is understandable, given his impressive performances for Leeds last season. The 20-year-old winger has already shown his quality in the Championship, and his pace and skill would be a valuable addition to Dyche’s squad.
However, Leeds’ sale of Summerville may change the dynamics of the situation. With the Dutchman set to depart for West Ham, Leeds may be more reluctant to let Gnonto go, especially given their financial constraints. Farke’s comments suggest that the club is aware of the need to make smart decisions, and keeping Gnonto may be seen as a priority.
The situation highlights the complexities of the transfer market, where clubs must balance their financial situation with their desire to keep key players. Leeds’ decision to sell Summerville may have a ripple effect, impacting Everton’s chances of signing Gnonto and forcing them to explore alternative targets.
As the transfer window continues to unfold, Everton FC’s pursuit of Willy Gnonto remains uncertain. The Toffees will need to be patient and flexible, exploring all options to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.