Victor Orta has told The Telegraph that Leeds United’s deadline-day signing Willy Gnonto has the ability to “surprise” Leeds fans. The club turned to the Italian wonderkid, having missed out on both Cody Gakpo and Bamba Dieng.
Leeds decided to make a late move for Gakpo. Orta flew to The Netherlands with a bid of thrashing out a move for the impressive attacker – but he had a change of heart after initially agreeing. Attention turned to Marseille star Dieng.
But a phone call from Nice saw Dieng change his mind at the airport. Dieng then failed a medical, and remains at Marseille. So, Leeds turned to 18-year-old Italy international Gnonto – signing the teenager from Swiss side Zurich.
Leeds fans got their first glimpse of Gnonto for the Under-21 side – playing 82 minutes for the second string in a 6-2 win over Southampton. Orta spoke about Gnonto, claiming many Leeds fans will be “surprised” at just how good he is.
“In the end, we decided on Wilfried Gnonto, who I think is going to surprise,” Orta said. “He can play inside, outside, he has already made his debut for Italy and has a mentality that is overwhelming. The team will not be short of goals.”
Orta: Leeds signing Gnonto has ability to surprise fans
Whether Leeds will see Gnonto over the next few weeks, remains to be seen. But Rodrigo remains on the sidelines with a shoulder injury. Patrick Bamford is still struggling to regain match fitness. He did score a hat-trick in the 6-2 win.
So, the path into the first team is certainly there. He might appear on the bench over the next few weeks. Dan James has left and Joe Gelhardt has admitted himself his form is not as good as it has been. Orta’s Gnonto verdict is glowing.
Leeds fans will not be expecting Gnonto to pull up trees, but are certainly excited at his potential. A player that has already earned four Italy caps. If Gnonto, as Orta says, can surprise Leeds fans – then he could become a real gem.
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