“Everton’s Fortunate Reprieve: Leeds United’s Decision to Retain Wilfried Gnonto Raises Questions Amidst Struggles”

“Everton’s Fortunate Reprieve: Leeds United’s Decision to Retain Wilfried Gnonto Raises Questions Amidst Struggles”

Leeds United’s decision to resist selling Wilfried Gnonto during the summer transfer window may have turned out to be a fortunate decision for Everton, suggests pundit Don Goodman.

Leeds rejected Everton’s bids for the winger in the summer, expressing a strong commitment to retaining the player. Subsequently, the player’s agent accused the club of obstructing interest from other clubs.

Despite Gnonto’s apparent desire for a move, he remained at Elland Road and started the first Championship game of the season against Cardiff City. Throughout the campaign, he has made 21 league appearances, contributing only one goal and one assist. Struggling for regular starts, he has featured in just one league game since late October.

Currently facing an injury concern with a hip injury, Gnonto’s future is once again a topic of discussion in the January transfer window. Everton is rumored to be renewing their interest, and West Ham United is the latest club linked to a potential move.

Don Goodman, a Sky Sports pundit, has hinted that signing Gnonto might not be a wise move for either club. He suggests that Everton may have dodged a bullet by not securing the young international’s services, citing concerns about his conduct last summer, which included going on strike. Goodman emphasizes the importance of regular playing time for Gnonto, especially with aspirations to feature in the Euros with Italy. However, he questions whether Everton’s decision to avoid a significant investment in the summer was a stroke of luck or if Gnonto’s lack of rhythm is due to infrequent playing opportunities at Leeds.

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