Everton target Wilfried Gnonto returns to Leeds first-team training after handing in a transfer request and refusing to play
Everton target Wilfried Gnonto has returned to first-team training with Leeds United.
Winger Gnonto, 19, had made clear his desire to leave the side relegated from the Premier League to the Championship last season.
He submitted a transfer request on Friday August 18, before their league game against West Bromwich Albion, which finished 1-1, having earlier withdrawn from the squad to face Birmingham.
But after manager Daniel Farke had ostracised Gnonto to training by himself, he has now decided to re-integrate the Italian and he could return to the matchday squad against current second-tier leaders Ipswich Town on Saturday.
Mail Sport reported on Monday that Leeds United condemned a racist comment made towards Gnonto on social media. The content of the comment made towards the 19-year-old forward has not been revealed.
Everton target Wilfried Gnonto (left) has returned to first-team training with Leeds United
He had handed in a transfer request and refused to play but Daniel Farke has reintegrated him
Sean Dyche’s struggling Everton remain interested in signing the talented Italian winger
Leeds’ statement read: ‘A racist comment made on social media towards Willy Gnonto has been brought to our attention. Leeds United condemn this action in the strongest possible way.
‘An investigation is now under way and the police have been notified. Racism will not be tolerated at Leeds United. The club will support Willy and anyone else connected to our club who experiences racism or any form of discrimination.’
Whites fans had earlier unfurled a banner mocking the wantaway star Gnonto during their clash with West Brom.
With speculation mounting over Gnonto’s future at the club, a group of Leeds fans held up a banner at Elland Road portraying the Italy international as a baby with the words: “Waaaah waaaah I not wanna play in the Championship.”
After arriving from Zurich last summer, Gnonto was one of few shining lights during an otherwise dismal campaign for Leeds as the club were unable to avoid suffering relegation from the Premier League.
Despite a number of stars including Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Marc Roca having departed the club this summer, Gnonto was said to be part of new boss Daniel Farke‘s plans as the club attempt to make an immediate return to the Premier League.
Sean Dyche’s Everton are keen to sign him but Leeds have rejected the Toffees’ latest offer of £25million plus bonuses and a sell-on clause as they are keen to keep one of their brightest talents.
Meanwhile, Leeds are expected to bid for Rangers star Glen Kamara as they look to strengthen in central midfield before the summer transfer deadline on September 1.
Leeds are expected to bid for Rangers star Glen Kamara as they look to strengthen in midfield
