Journalist Sacha Tavolieri reports that West Ham United is expected to sign Wilfried Gnonto, while Leeds United is considering Burnley’s Manuel Benson as a potential replacement.
When the season began, the 20-year-old first stated that he wanted to leave Leeds United. Even though he rejoined the team following his initial leave amid the transfer saga, a move never happened. His possible return to the top division is currently the subject of intense speculation, with Premier League teams, most notably West Ham, expressing interest.
Tavolieri now claims that Leeds has already given Burnley’s Benson, a winger, priority as a replacement for Gnonto, a Belgian winger, and that Leeds is anticipating the likelihood of Gnonto being transferred to West Ham. According to reports, the Belgium u21 International agreement is “open and still moving.”
Although Gnonto’s contract keeps him at Elland Road until June 2027, it seems as though he may be planning to leave.
Need for depth
The Hammers, who are now sixth in the Premier League rankings, are having a fantastic season. With 34 points, they are just six points behind Arsenal in fourth position.
Although they are commended for their excellent League position, they still need depth, particularly in light of the fact that Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion are also trying to get back into winning ways.
In a bid to strengthen their attack, David Moyes’ side have earmarked Gnonto as a potential option upfront. Having garnered significant Premier League experience, Gnonto, hailed by Roberto Mancini as a “phenomenal” player, will seamlessly slot into West Ham’s team as his speed and technicality make him suitable for their counter-attacking style of play.
Lucas Paqueta and Mohammed Kudus have been strategically deployed by Moyes on the left wing; this decision was motivated by need but also serves to emphasize the pressing need for reinforcements. Jarred Bowen’s injury setback and Mohammed Kudus’s obligations to the Ghana national team in the ongoing African Cup of Nations highlight how urgent it is to add Gnonto to the squad.
Gnonto is currently paid £20,000 a week at Elland Road, and West Ham ought to have no trouble matching his pay.
The Hammers will next take on Sheffield United at Bramall Lane in an attempt to recover from their unsatisfactory FA Cup performance.
