In a recent report, journalist Dean Jones claimed that West Ham United are monitoring Leeds United winger Wilfried Gnonto. It has been mentioned that the Hammers are eyeing a move to recruit the Italian wide player.
Gnonto’s Inconsistent Season At Elland Road
Gnonto has struggled to be consistent with his performances on the left side of Leeds United’s attack during this campaign. The 20-year-old has found the back of the net once and earned one assist in 22 matches for the Whites this season in all competitions.
The Italian talent has caught the eye at times on the offensive end of the pitch based on his average of 0.9 shots, 0.3 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in the EFL Championship. He has been careful when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half after completing 86.7% of his attempted passes in the English second tier (stats via whoscored).
Gnonto is under contract at Elland Road will expire in the summer of 2027. Thus, it won’t be easy for the Hammers to sign him on the cheap this winter.
Should West Ham United Boss David Moyes Go For Gnonto?
Gnonto is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few driving runs out in the wide areas. He can create the odd chance for his teammates in the final third and can shoot the ball with power from long range.
The Italian speedster is primarily a left-sided wide player but can also play on the right-wing or in the number ten position if told to do so by his manager. He would add more pace and firepower to West Ham head coach David Moyes’ attack.
At 20, Gnonto has got a very promising future ahead and would be an excellent acquisition for the Hammers in the long run. He is already good enough to fight for a regular place in Moyes’ first XI and could help the London club compete across all fronts over the next few years.
However, it won’t be easy for Gnonto to adjust to the physical demands and high intensity of Premier League football if Moyes can devise a way to get a deal done for him soon. Still, West Ham should go for the Italian winger in this January transfer window.
