Serie A giants AC Milan are testing Leeds United’s resolve over Wilfried Gnonto with the Championship outfit demanding £17 million for the Italy international.
The relief was palpable some six weeks ago when Wilfried Gnonto’s agent indicated that, whatever happened during the final stretch of a difficult season for the Elland Road outfit, their new-found fans’ favourite would be sticking around for the long haul.
“We’ve all always believed in Willy’s qualities. Maybe in Italy (they trusted him) a little less, due to a lack of confidence in young players,” Claudio Vigorelli explains.
“He’s very happy there and I think he’ll stay there. His path is there. The club is delighted with his performances. We will probably meet with the club to discuss a possible (contract) extension.
“There will be no problems.”
Reports now suggesting that both AC Milan and Fiorentina have held initial talks with Leeds United over a deal for Gnonto, then, are not exactly a positive development to what was supposed to be a feel-good story.
A story of loyalty in the face of adversity.
Leeds United now face Wilfried Gnonto battle
Then again, even if Gnonto does want to stay despite Leeds’ relegation back to the Championship, he only holds some of the cards. Leeds may still opt to cash in on their prized asset. In the knowledge that Gnonto’s departure would free up funds for their next manager – whoever that will be – to rebuild the playing squad in his image.
Leeds, Calciomercato add, value Gnonto at £17 million. A fee Milan and Fiorentina – who are both still coming to terms with European heartbreak – are currently unwilling to match.
The diminutive, 19-year-old, Gnonto only joined Leeds on the final day of the summer transfer window; arriving from Swiss outfit FC Zurich for an initial fee of £3.8 million. Say what you want about Victor Orta – the club’s now-departed director of football – this was right up there with last year’s finest pound-for-pound signings anywhere in the Premier League.
Gnonto, ironically, started his career with Milan’s bitter rivals Inter.
He has also spoken openly about his interest in a return to San Siro. Albeit with the Nerazzuri rather than the Rossoneri.
“I owe a lot to Inter. (Inter gave me) eight fundamental years for my growth. (This) led me to be the footballer and man I am now,” Gnonto explains. “Playing for or against Inter would always be a great honour.”
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