Leeds United have made a transfer enquiry with FC Zurich for their Italian striker Willy Gnonto as boss Jesse Marsch seeks to further bolster his side during the summer window.
Leeds are hoping to conclude a deal for the young attacker in the region of £4million with future bonus payments raising the price of the deal in the long-term.
Gnonto’s current side Zurich initially waved off any potential interest by demanding £17million for the player. But are now more open to discussing a possible sale with the Italian entering the final year of his contract.
The 18-year-old burst onto the European scene with dazzling performances for his national side in the UEFA Nations League in June. Now he could find himself heading to the English top-flight.
He previously starred during Zurich’s title-winning season just gone, scoring 11 goals in all competitions, but remained relatively untested until he found his way into Roberto Mancini’s squad.
Leeds have been keen to further bolster their attacking threat after selling Raphinha to Barcelona, with Gnonto viewed as one possible solution following the club’s positive start to the new season.
The Inter academy product departed Italy in search of regular first-team football, despite only turning 18 at the end of last year.
And he could be heading to join a Leeds side that has been one of the Premier League’s busiest clubs having already brought seven players to Elland Road during the current window.
At £4million, Gnonto would be the club’s cheapest acquisition besides the free transfer of goalkeeper Joel Robles, in stark contrast to the £29million they paid for Brenden Aaronson.
