In a recent tweet, journalist Alessio Lento mentioned that Aston Villa are stepping up their chase for Leeds United winger Wilfried Gnonto this summer. It has been stated that the Villans could face competition from Everton in the race to land the Italian speedster.
Futuro in #PremierLeague per il Nazionale di #Mancini, Wilfried #Gnonto: l'#Everton insiste, ma l'#AstonVilla di #Emery non ha intenzione di mollare la presa. Sono ore bollenti 🔥 @calciomercatoit
— Alessio Lento (@alessio_lento) July 11, 2023
Gnonto’s Impressive Rise In Yorkshire Last Season
Gnonto enjoyed a decent campaign at Elland Road as he produced a string of impressive displays for them in the final third. However, the Italian talent failed to help the Whites avoid relegation from the Premier League.
The 19-year-old netted four goals and grabbed four assists in 28 senior appearances for the Yorkshire club so far across multiple competitions. Gnonto managed to prove his worth at times in the opposition half by averaging 0.9 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He even distributed the ball relatively well after completing 77% of his attempted passes in the English top flight (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Leeds United will run out in the summer of 2027. Thus, it won’t be easy for the Villans to sign him on the cheap ahead of the new campaign.
Is Gnonto A Good Option For Aston Villa Boss Unai Emery?
Gnonto can use his quickness to make a few dangerous runs with the ball out on the flanks. He has got the eye to play some decisive passes in and around the opponent’s penalty box and can be a good finisher in front of the opponent’s goal. Gnonto is primarily a left-sided wide player but can also function as a right-winger or play in the number ten position if needed.
However, the Italian winger still has a lot to learn before he can prove his worth as a regular starter in top-flight football.
Gnonto will add more pace and goals to Aston Villa boss Unai Emery‘s attack. He might even help the Villans challenge for a top-half finish in the Premier League next season.
At 19, Gnonto has the potential to become one of the best players in his position someday. Thus, the West Midlands club should prioritize on getting a deal over the line for him as he will be an excellent option for them in the long run.
