The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Tuesday 11th July) Everton on the verge of tying up Gnonto deal
Everton on the verge of tying up Gnonto deal
Multiple media reports are suggesting that Everton are on the verge to tying up the £18m signature of Leeds winger Wilfred Gnonto. Although bought for the bargain price of only £4m, the mark-up seems incredibly low for a player of his talent. There's not many times in Leeds recent history, that they get a chance to make a decent profit on their talent, so when they do, they should take full advantage.
For someone so young, he brings a lot of maturity to his game. At only 19yo, he already has 11 senior International caps to his name (for Italy). He has great close ball control, reads the game well, creates chances and never gives the ball away cheaply.
He is contracted to Elland Road until 2027, and is one of only a few players (along with Harrison) not to have a loan clause in their contract. If Leeds were happy to shell out £35m for the potential of what Rutter can bring to the party, why can't they at least get the same for Gnonto?
Liverpool knock back Phillips loan request
Liverpool have told Leeds that Nat Phillips is available for transfer, but only on a permanent transfer. The out of favour centre-back, only played twice last season, and the Reds are keen to free up space to bring new talent to Anfield this Summer.
Despite Daniel Farke's close relationship with Jurgen Klopp, Leeds were knocked back when trying to secure a season long loan for the 26yo, and will need to stump up £7m - £10m if they want their man. Leeds see Phillips as the ideal replacement for Robin Koch, who joined Eintracht Frankfurt last week.
It could be a whitewash
Leeds kick off their pre-season tomorrow when they face Manchester Utd at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo. To say Leeds aren't ready is an understatement. Willy Gnonto, Crysencio Summerville, Illan Meslier and Rodrigo are not scheduled back until next week, and with Koch, Arronson and Llorente having departed on loan, the Whites could face a whitewash.
To make matters worse, Marc Roca is expected to secure his loan move to Real Betis in the next 24 hours, with the La Liga outfit having an option to make the move permanent subject to a £10.2m fee.