Everton has set sights on Leeds United’s Italian winger, Wilfried Gnonto, ahead of the summer transfer window closing on August 31.
Sources reveal that Leeds will accept a £25 million bid for the talented player, although negotiations are still ongoing with no final agreement in place.
Leeds are in a more comfortable position having sold Crysencio Summerville and Archie Gray earlier this summer, leaving them needing to sell Gnonto far less.
They have put a value of £25 million on his services, though, and are holding firm over their asking price.
But Everton have been following Gnonto for a while, as far back as last summer when the winger went on strike to secure an exit.
Prior to that, however, Everton’s financial future is a little less certain given ongoing takeover discussions and PSR fears.
This raises questions about whether they can afford the deal.
Leeds United’s Position and Possible Replacements
Leeds United are open to selling Gnonto, but do not want any more key players to leave having already allowed Summerville and Gray move on.
These sales have increased the club’s financial footing, and that is part of the reason they are in no hurry to again cash-in on Gnonto unless a sufficient offer is made.
Manager Daniel Farke’s concern with more big names exists and will look to land a replacement including Norwich City winger Jonathan Rowe if Gnonto does depart.
Leeds are the ones under pressure to bolster their ranks as they negotiate the remaining weeks in this transfer window.
Everton’s Transfer Plans
Everton have been keen to strengthen their forward line ahead of the new season, particularly in wide areas.
They have already struck a loan deal for Jesper Lindstrom, and one on the radar is striker Gnonto, a top target for manager Sean Dyche.
But Everton’s own financial concerns may represent a significant obstacle in their attempt to bring the Italian winger.
With the transfer window shutting, Everton will need to move quickly to secure Gnonto’s signature.
This is a story which could yet drag on as both sides aim to get their squads in place for the new season.
Whether or not Everton can satisfy Leeds’ terms might just be key in getting this deal done before the deadline.
Meanwhile, Leeds are said to still be in the market for further reinforcements and they face competition from Sheffield United over a Liverpool ace.
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