Everton boss Sean Dyche has discussed the club’s failed summer pursuit of Wilfried Gnonto.
Everton’s chase for Leeds United attacker Wilfried Gnonto was one of the most drawn-out sagas of the summer transfer window.
Gnonto clearly wanted to make the move to Goodison Park, at once stage going ‘on strike’ at Elland Road.
According to Italian publication Sport Mediaset, the Toffees were close to securing a late £38.5 million deal for the 19-year-old.
However, negotiations ultimately collapsed and Everton were unable to secure the services of the 11-cap Italy international.
It remains to be seen whether or not the Merseyside outfit will return to the table for Gnonto in January.
Sean Dyche has given his verdict on the situation. When asked how close Gnonto was to joining Everton, the manager said, “we weren’t close enough to any situation. The truth is that certain parameters and guidelines is where we are at. The club is not where it was two or three years ago, that is apparent,” as quoted by The Liverpool Echo.
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Gnonto would have been a brilliant addition to Dyche’s squad. The teenager is fantastically talented, and showed in the Premier League last season that he can shine at the highest level.
Everton must find a way to thrive without Gnonto
The Toffees must now find a way to negotiate their top flight survival mission with the squad they have, until January at least. However, unless their attacking contingent clicks and finds some form then their failure to capture Gnonto could haunt them throughout the campaign.
Everton were able to show some improvement in front of goal against Sheffield United on Saturday. They were able to find the back of the net twice at Bramall Lane, and secured their first Premier League point of the campaign so far in the process.
Despite this positive result, Dyche will know that huge improvements are needed after the international break.
Meanwhile, Leeds United will be relying on Gnonto to play a key role for them as they look to build a Championship promotion push.