Everton are frontrunners to sign Wilfried Gnonto as the player enters a ‘decisive’ few days.
That’s according to Calciomercato, who have reported Gnonto could make a decision on his next destination by the end of the week.
The Italian has been heavily linked with a move away from Leeds United since they were relegated from the Premier League.
Gnonto only joined the Whites from Zurich last summer but enjoyed an impressive breakthrough season that has seen him attract interest from clubs across England, Italy and Germany.
The report claims that the Toffees are currently leading the race to sign Gnonto, with the teenager keen to test himself at the highest level.
Aston Villa have also made an approach to sign the winger, with Unai Emery’s side informed that they would have to cough up £21.5 million to land him.
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It’s unclear how Everton would fund a big money move for the youngster, though they will have to act fast.
Wilfried Gnonto would be a good signing but he won’t lift Everton out of a relegation scrap
Wilfried Gnonto attracted attention from plenty of fans and pundits last season as he shone in Leeds United’s attack.
The Italian picked up six goal contributions for the Whites but was forced to watch on from the bench in the latter stages of the campaign, despite returning from injury in April.
Gnonto could easily be one of Everton’s best players in a few years time and it would be well worth investing in him for that reason alone, however he won’t be the one dragging them out of a relegation scrap.
The Toffees can’t rely on the 19-year-old to do all their dirty work next season, as shown through his later contributions at Elland Road.
Leeds still need to splash the cash on players that can guide them to safety, while Gnonto continues to develop and grow on Merseyside.