Leeds United have responded to ongoing speculation surrounding Wilfried Gnonto’s future amid growing interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia ahead of the January transfer window.
The Italian winger is currently sidelined with a calf injury but is expected to return to action soon. Despite his absence, talk about a potential move has intensified following reports that several Saudi Pro League sides are preparing surprise bids to lure him away this winter. Leeds, already struggling with limited attacking options due to injuries to both Gnonto and Daniel James, are in no position to weaken their forward line further mid-season. However, the financial lure of Saudi offers could prove tempting, as it would give the club a chance to boost their transfer budget for January and the following summer.
Gnonto remains a valued member of Daniel Farke’s squad, and Leeds are eager to see him back in full fitness and contributing again. According to Leeds Live, there is no indication that the club are actively looking to sell, nor is the player pushing for a move. Still, the door isn’t completely shut — a significant bid could change things if the Saudi sides come forward with an offer too good to refuse.
Last year, Leeds set a price tag of around £30 million for Gnonto after their playoff final defeat, and that valuation has largely remained the same. Should an offer in that region arrive this winter, Leeds might be persuaded to cash in and record a sizable profit.
The potential sale does come with risk. Gnonto has endured fitness issues this season and isn’t an automatic starter when everyone is available, as Daniel James currently sits ahead of him in the pecking order. Yet, he remains one of Leeds’ few naturally creative players — a trait the squad has lacked at times this campaign.
If Leeds were to part ways with Gnonto, Farke would need firm guarantees that any funds raised would be reinvested to strengthen key areas. The club are already targeting reinforcements, including another winger, an attacking midfielder, and Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood.
Ultimately, selling Gnonto in January could open financial flexibility for Leeds to reshape their attack — but it would also mean losing one of their brightest young talents at a pivotal stage of the season.
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