Talks over Willy Gnonto’s move to SC Freiburg are “stuck” as the Bundesliga side can’t afford Leeds United’s £21.5million asking price, according to 90min Germany.
The website reported (6 August) that Leeds are under no pressure to depart with Gnonto who is contracted until 2027, but Freiburg are very keen on the 19-year-old as the clock ticks down to transfer deadline day in Germany.
German newspaper Bild reported on Sunday (6 August) that the Italian international desired a permanent departure from the Whites and favoured a move to Europe-qualifying Freiburg, but time is running out for any deal to be completed.
It seems that neither party can agree on anything with this deal.
If Leeds are unwilling to lower the asking price for Gnonto, then he would be unlikely to make the switch to his preferred destination. Freiburg is set for a promising season following their fifth-place finish in the German top flight and their qualification to the Europa League group stages.
Meanwhile, Gnonto could remain in the Championship. He started the Whites’ opening clash against Cardiff City on Sunday (6 August) but was subbed off for Joe Gelhardt in the closing ten minutes as they were losing 2-1.
While a last-minute Crysencio Summerville equaliser saved Daniel Fakre’s blushes on the opening day, there is a lot still to do behind the scenes at Leeds with Gnonto being one of the most pressing issues.
But if Gnonto does not secure a move away from the club this summer, he will likely become unsettled and not play to his best, meaning for morale’s sake Leeds may want to sell him even if the fee is below his value.
Gnonto is contracted to Leeds United until 2027 which makes a sale more complicated, meaning Freiburg have an uphill battle if they want to make the transfer.
If Leeds wanted to get their full value for their star forward, perhaps Everton could have been a suitable option with Tuttomercato reporting that the Toffees remain interested.
However, with Youssef Chermiti just a medical away from completing his move to Goodison Park, according to Fabrizio Romano, the Toffees may not feel the need to add more in attack.
Gnonto looks to be in transfer limbo, and his preferred move is looking unlikely. Leeds runs the risk of unsettling one of their most sought-after players and must be careful.
In other Leeds United news, Tyler Adams has sent a message to a Leeds youngster after his debut.
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