Leeds United winger Willy Gnonto is a surprise target for Serie A club Fiorentina in the final days of the summer transfer window. Negotiations between the two clubs are now underway for the 22-year-old attacker.
Fiorentina's interest is genuine, though it remains unclear if a deal will be completed before the deadline. Gnonto, who joined Leeds from FC Zurich in September 2022, has made 147 appearances for the club but started only four Premier League games last season. He has been sidelined recently with a hamstring injury suffered in a pre-season friendly against Manchester United.
It was stated that Fiorentina are "pursuing Wilfred Gnonto" and have initiated contact with Leeds. The Italian club sees Gnonto as a winger, a position they are actively looking to strengthen. A return to Italy is a possibility for the player after spells in Switzerland and England. Leeds manager Daniel Farke had previously confirmed on Friday that Gnonto was set to return to training ahead of Sunday's Championship fixture against Brentford, indicating his place in the immediate plans.
The Italian international's role has been inconsistent. Despite his clear talent, he found starting opportunities limited in the top flight last term and also battled a calf injury. His versatility was on show in pre-season, however, where he impressed in a right wing-back role during the second half against Manchester United. Farke discussed his attacking options at his pre-Brentford press conference, mentioning Gnonto among them. The player's current contract situation and his standing within the squad will be key factors in any decision.
With the window closing in just four days, a potential departure would force a late reassessment of the club's wide options. Gnonto's potential sale could generate funds, but it would also reduce depth in a position where Leeds have other players like Crysencio Summerville and Dan James. The club's activity in the remaining days will be closely watched by fans checking the latest fixtures and standings. Any move would need to be balanced against the need to maintain a competitive group for the promotion push.
Daniel Farke now faces a decision on whether to integrate a fit-again Gnonto back into his plans or sanction a move. The manager's comments on Friday suggested the player was in his thoughts for the weekend. Gnonto's next appearance, should he stay, could come as soon as the trip to Coventry City on September 16th.
