Leeds United

Leeds United: O’Rourke claims Wilfried Gnonto is an “exciting player”

|
Image for Leeds United: O’Rourke claims Wilfried Gnonto is an “exciting player”

Leeds United’s new signing Wilfried Gnonto is an “exciting player” who Leeds fans “will like.”

That is according to journalist Pete O’Rourke, who was speaking to This is Futbol about the latest news from Elland Road.

Leeds secured the signing of Gnonto from FC Zürich on deadline day for a reported £3.8m fee, with the club needing a back-up centre-forward option to Patrick Bamford.

The four-time Italy international is the youngest goalscorer in the national team’s history, having hit the back of the net in a Nations League fixture in Germany in June.

And O’Rourke believes that the 20-year-old could be an exciting player for Jesse Marsch’s side, and could develop into a player that the fans like.

“As you said, he’s looked good, a full international for Italy already, scored as well for them.

“So, I think he’s got a huge potential going forward in his career and an exciting player that I think Leeds fans will like, once he does get that chance in the first team.”

1 of 15

Leeds United fans, who were these players sold to? Starting with an easy one: Alan Smith

TIF Thoughts on O’Rourke’s comments

We see no reason as to why Leeds fans shouldn’t be excited by the prospect of Gnonto developing into a top-class forward whilst under the tutelage of Marsch at Elland Road.

The Verbania-born forward, who has been described as “like few others” by Italy manager Roberto Mancini, enjoyed a solid campaign in Switzerland last season, scoring ten goals and providing five assists in 36 appearances according to Transfermarkt, suggesting that the prospect could be a steady provider of goals for the Whites, once he adapts to the rigours and pace of Premier League football.

Therefore, we agree with O’Rourke, and believe that Gnonto has a high ceiling he can reach whilst at the Yorkshire club, potentially turning him into a fans favourite.

Share this article