Wilfried Gnonto's departure from Leeds United is taking shape. The English club is now considering a sale, whether through a loan or a permanent transfer, for its 22-year-old striker. According to Telegraph reports, Fiorentina has shown interest in the Italian international's profile after four seasons at Elland Road. Leeds, which has struggled to make Gnonto a regular starter, could thus offer him a fresh start. The form of this move remains to be decided, especially as the transfer window is closing in just a few hours.
A coveted profile despite mixed statistics
Despite his evident potential, Wilfried Gnonto has never managed to establish himself as a key figure in the
Whites squad. Last season, he was primarily used as a substitute, accumulating limited minutes. At just 22 years old, the player with 13 caps for Italy could still attract significant interest, even with reduced playing time. Leeds' management, aware of the situation, has indicated that a "small chance" of a transfer exists, while acknowledging the risks of a late exit during the summer window. Talks between Leeds and Fiorentina are ongoing, though the outcome remains uncertain. A potential sale of Gnonto could also impact the transfer market for English clubs, particularly in the Premier League.
Mudryk waiting in the wings if Gnonto leaves Leeds
Gnonto's departure could indeed create an unexpected opportunity for Leeds. The West Yorkshire club is seeking a loan for Mykhailo Mudryk, Chelsea's Ukrainian striker. Injured and suspended for 18 months for doping, the player needs to regain regular playing time—a criterion Leeds could now fulfill. The competition would be reduced with Gnonto's exit, which could prompt Chelsea to reconsider their previously hesitant stance. The situation surrounding Mudryk, though stalled in recent weeks, remains under watch. The Ukrainian's arrival at Leeds would now largely depend on the conclusion of negotiations over Gnonto. The two matters are now linked, and their resolution could reshape
Leeds' squad for the upcoming season.
A frantic end to the transfer window
This case illustrates the race against time that characterizes the final day of the transfer window. With the transfer window about to close, clubs must act quickly, even if it means taking calculated risks. For Leeds, the priority is now twofold: finding a successor to Gnonto and finalizing Mudryk's arrival. Two moves that, according to observers, could give the team a new lease on life for the rest of the season. Meanwhile, Fiorentina sees Gnonto as a profile capable of strengthening their attack, even if his club performance remains to be proven. The Italian club, in the midst of a rebuild, is banking on young talent to rebuild an ambitious team. An operation that, if successful, could mark a turning point for both parties.