Leeds United have claimed a major win away from the pitch with regards to Wilfried Gnonto after he penned a new four-year deal at Elland Road.
That new deal was signed off on 31 August, meaning the Italian will now be at Leeds until 2027/28.
The decision to extend this contract comes minus the inclusion of any exit clauses, which has been lauded as a savvy piece of business by the club.
No Exit Clause: A Strategic Move by Leeds
Although his original contract was due to run until the summer of 2027, Gnonto is now tied down further and Leeds United moved quickly enough in getting their man on a new deal so that any exit for talented winger will be done on their terms.
Unlike several team members who left this summer for cut-price fees due to exit clauses, Gnonto’s acts are now fully controlled by the club.
That will stop the Whites from being in a similar position of having to sell one year later for less.
Gnonto was pursued by a few clubs over the summer (even though he can’t leave), so it makes sense to have him as an asset.
As reported by The Sun, Everton were one of many clubs who chased after the winger but they failed to reach Leeds United’s valuation.
By securing this new deal, Leeds are holding onto one of their most valuable assets but also protecting themselves from being caught off guard by future transfer offers.
Looking Ahead: A Core Player for Farke’s Squad
His commitment to Elland Road comes as the club prepares for another promotion push.
Manager Daniel Farke will be looking to his 20-year-old wonderkid this season, hoping he can play a big part in turning the tide from last year’s heartbreak at losing out on promotion.
However, a lack of exit clause means the club can look to build a competitive team with Gnonto and other key players without the looming threat of losing them unexpectedly.
It can only be viewed as a positive new deal for Leeds United, as they look to stabilize and strengthen the squad after a turbulent summer.
Hopefully, other star players will also commit their future with a long term deal too to keep the heart of the squad together as they aim for success in the Championship and beyond.
Meanwhile, Leeds United fans await Ao Tanaka’s first appearance after he joined the club on deadline day.
That has set the scene for what could prove to be an intriguing summer, with new faces already arriving at clubs and new first-team squads taking shape ahead of another exciting season.
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