Leeds attacker Wilfried Gnonto is hot property from various sides across Europe this summer, with Aston Villa among those interested.
Italian international is likely to depart Leeds however, following their relegation to the Championship.
The 19-year-old Gnonto impressed many last season with his performances for the struggling Leeds side.
According to a report from Sportitalia via Football Italia, interest in the forward is high, with Everton and Freiburg the clubs joining Villa in pursuit.
While Everton allegedly remain the favourites in this transfer hunt, Villa are said to have “made an approach” which should stand them in good stead.
Leeds are reportedly valuing their prized asset at €25million (£21m), and he currently has four years remaining on his contract.
Gnonto’s agent also confirmed there is interest in the Italian and that the player is keen to remain in the Premier League.
Speaking on Calciomercato’s TVPlay via LeedsLive, he said “I think there will be options. The Premier League experience has been fantastic for him and I think he wants to continue in that direction.”
Gnonto’s Premier League debut season
The 19-year-old came through the Inter Milan academy before joining FC Zurich in 2020 on a free. His move to Leeds came in September 2022, joining for £3.8m; a bargain at the time with his market value estimated around £8.6m.
He has since won over any doubters, with the fee being touted nearly seven times what Leeds paid for him less than a year ago.
His performance drew praise from media and pundits, including Gary Neville, who praised the Italian’s maturity.
“To see someone so mature, so young is very unusual in that position,” Neville said. “Sometimes you see potential and talent but watching him so closely, his understanding of where to be, his choice of pass, when to run with it, his awareness of teammates, really good honestly.”
Gnonto scored four and assisted four for Leeds, including his memorable first-minute strike against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The winger made 28 appearances last season in all competitions and also became a regular in the Italian national side.
He now has 11 caps for Italy along with one goal. He also appeared at the U21 Euros, scoring one goal in three games for the Azzurri.
It is pretty safe to say that he could be a top singing should Unai Emery want him at Villa..
