From the moment the club's relegation from the Premier League was confirmed, Wilfried Gnonto's Leeds United future was brought into question. The 19-year-old forward is one of the most promising young strikers in Europe, with 10 caps for Italy and an international goal already on his CV at such a young age.
His progress since arriving at Leeds from Zurich last summer meant Serie A clubs were already sitting up and taking an interest for the future. Then came relegation and now that interest has seen several sharks circling the Whites, ready to move in and make a play for a player who wants to be playing at the top level, whether in England or his native Italy.
To that end Italian giants Juventus know they have a great opportunity this summer to sign a player who they've been tracking with an eye on for the future. Now, according to Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy, Juventus have made a first move by holding an initial conversation with representatives of Gnonto, although crucially, no talks have been held with Leeds at this stage.
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Juve have shown their interest however, and it is expected that talks could begin next week when the transfer window officially opens. The Old Lady see Gnonto as an attractive and ultimately cheap deal with the player a much more affordable option than many striker targets.
The Italians may expedite the process if they sell Federico Chiesa, with Bayern Munich the favourites alongside Liverpool to make a move for the £40m-rated striker. Juventus could be forced to sell if an offer of around £40m is tabled, meaning an increased need to strengthen their attacking ranks and a greater desire to get Gnonto into the club quickly.
