Everton look for Wilfried Gnonto alternatives as Leeds play hardball

By Fraser Fletcher, Transfer Correspondent

2nd Aug, 2023 | 4:00pm

Sources: Major update on Everton talks to sign Wilfried Gnonto

Everton remain in talks to sign Wilfried Gnonto but Leeds United are playing hardball over a deal, sources have told Football Insider.

There is no release clause in the wide forward’s United contract, and it is now believed that Everton are also looking at alternative options if a deal falls through.

An agreement is yet to be reached by the two Premier League sides for Gnonto, but talks are continuing.

Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (25 July) that talks are ongoing between the Merseysiders and Leeds – as well as with the player’s representatives.

Gnonto’s contract at Elland Road runs until June 2027 after he joined from FC Zurich in 2022 for a reported fee of just under £4million.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Everton manager Sean Dyche is a big admirer of Gnonto’s dynamism and versatility.

The youngster featured in several attacking roles as he made 28 appearances for Leeds in his first season in English football – scoring four goals and adding four assists.

Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (25 July) that Premier League duo Fulham and Crystal Palace are facing competition from Saudi Arabia for Demarai Gray’s signautre

The former Leicester City star has less than 12 months remaining on his contract, and talks with the Merseysiders about a renewal are yet to progress.

Toffees boss Sean Dyche is believed to be keen to raise transfer funds after receiving limited backing from the club’s owners since taking over in January.

Arnaut Danjuma and Ashley Young have already arrived at Goodison Park since the start of the summer window.

In other news, Everton could now swoop for West Ham star