Premier League outfit Leeds United could complete the bargain signing of FC Zurich’s Italy international centre-forward Willy Gnonto on Friday, as reported by Sport Italia, via Football Italia.
Now, an 18-year-old from the Swiss league might not be the big-money marquee striker signing many at Elland Road were hoping for. But do not despair; Willy Gnonto is no ordinary 18-year-old.
A case in point; The teenager scored 10 times for Zurich last season before his 19th birthday? Still not convinced? Well how about the fact that he’s already got four caps for the Italian national team? Not only that, he’s scored against Germany in the UEFA Nations League, becoming their youngest ever goalscorer, while starting two of the last four Azzurri matches.
When you put it all together, you’ve got a pretty special young forward.
Leeds United close in on Italy wonderkid Wilfried Gnonto
“He is a boy. He is 18 years old and he should not be put under too much pressure,” says Italy coach Roberto Mancini. “He has to grow quietly. For his age, he knows how to play football like few other players and is very fast.
“If he grows calmly, without too much pressure on him, he can show his important qualities. And he is an intelligent boy. He can grow.
“His best role is second striker, but he can also play on the wing.”
Whether a move to the Premier League is too much too soon for Gnonto is anyone’s guess. But it seems we’re about to find out. Because, according to SportItalia, Leeds could seal a cut-price deal before the weekend. Potentially as early as Friday.
Zurich went into the market demanding £18 million. But, with just one year left on his contract, they are now willing to accept around £6 million (Alfredo Pedulla). Leeds have offered £4.5 million, plus bonuses, but an agreement should not be too far away.
Feyenoord were also keen. But they, according to Swiss publication Blick, backed out due to Zurich’s demands. That leaves Leeds as the most likely destination for one of the most exciting young strikers in the game.
Interestingly, Gnonto left Serie A giants Inter Milan before moving to Switzerland. Something that frustrates Inter director Beppe Marotta no end; A homegrown talent of such potential slipping through his fingers.
“This is a complaint that I make in a concrete way,” Marotta fumes. “In Italy, from a regulatory point of view, there is no apprenticeship (system).”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
