Sport nationExclusive: Leeds United Respond to Saudi Interest in Wilfried Gnonto
Leeds United has been made aware of “concrete interest” from multiple Saudi Arabian clubs in signing Wilfried Gnonto, sources close to the situation have revealed to Football Insider. The 21-year-old winger has emerged as a top target for several Saudi Pro League teams, who are willing to splash the cash to secure his services.
Despite Gnonto’s relatively recent contract extension, which ties him to Elland Road until the end of the 2027/28 season, Leeds United is bracing itself for formal offers from the Middle East. The Yorkshire club is understood to be monitoring the situation closely, with Gnonto’s representatives also aware of the interest.
Gnonto’s impressive performances for Leeds United have not gone unnoticed, with the Italian Under-21 international catching the eye of several top clubs. His pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability have made him a valuable asset to Jesse Marsch’s side, and it is little wonder that he is attracting attention from wealthy Saudi clubs.
The Saudi Pro League has become an increasingly attractive destination for top players in recent years, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema making high-profile moves to the region. The financial muscle of Saudi clubs has enabled them to compete with top European teams for the signatures of top players, and Gnonto is the latest talent to be linked with a move to the Middle East.
While Leeds United is unlikely to welcome any offers for Gnonto, the club is aware that the player’s head may be turned by the prospect of a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. The Yorkshire club has invested heavily in Gnonto’s development, and it is keen to see him continue to flourish at Elland Road.
As the January transfer window heats up, Leeds United will be monitoring the situation closely, with Gnonto’s future at the forefront of the club’s thoughts. While the player’s contract situation suggests that he is committed to the club, the lure of a big-money move to Saudi Arabia may yet prove too tempting to resist.
In the coming weeks, Leeds United will face a stern test of its resolve to keep Gnonto at the club. The Yorkshire club’s fans will be hoping that the player’s commitment to the cause will be enough to keep him at Elland Road, but the prospect of a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia may yet prove too great to resist.
Austute Man
Sport nation
