Everton continue to be linked to Leeds United winger Wilfried Gnonto
Everton finished their second pre-season friendly in a 0-0 draw to League One side Bolton Wanderers yesterday. The lack of finishing once again highlights the need to bring in players who can score goals and create goal-scoring opportunities.
The Toffees created some good opportunities with connected passing play to break out, but the lack of quality in the final third was apparent as it was for much of last season. This is why Manager Sean Dyche has targeted several attacking options this transfer window. This includes Victor Gyorkes, El Bilal Toure, Moussa Dembele, and more.
According to Football Insider, Everton are in pole position to sign Leeds winger Wilfried Gnonto at a price of 20 million pounds. The Toffees have been linked to the 19-year-old Italian for what seems like months now, but no deal has been confirmed. Apparently, even his agents traveled to Merseyside to close the deal! Now that Leeds has been relegated to the Championship, they have loaned out several first-team players and sold main man Rodrigo to Qatar club Al-Rayyan. EFC can take advantage of Leeds’s situation and bring in a young player with tons of potential. Everton faces interest from Serie A side Napoli according to the report.
EFC close to signing Italian Youngster Wilfried Gnonto
Wilfried Gnonto is a versatile player, who can play on either side of the wings and be another center-forward if necessary. His best attributes are his abilities on the ball. According to DataMB, Gnonto ranks above the 80th percentile in progressive carries and successful dribbles for wingers.
The ability to beat a defender one on one is something EFC has lacked, especially after letting go of Richarlison last summer. Gnonto adds some dynamic and pop that is much needed. With the possibility of winger Demarai Gray leaving the club, Gnonto can be a proper upgrade that possesses more potential. With him only being 19 years old, there’s tons of room for growth, while also being able to contribute right away. Two EFC youngsters are in talks for loan deals, mainly because they need more minutes before entering the first team to be a positive contributor.
However, time is sensitive as Everton does not want to start the season without a proper squad that has good depth. Players need to be brought in who can raise the quality of play on the field, and Wilfried Gnonto is one who Everton should not let slip away.
Will the Merseysiders win the race for Wilfried Gnonto?