Leeds United have officially announced that Willy Gnonto has finalized a temporary transfer to Fiorentina, with a purchase clause attached to the arrangement. The total valuation of the deal reaches €21m, factoring in the loan charge, prospective buyout sum, and performance-related extras.
The Italian attacker heads back to his native nation after Leeds permitted him to fly to Italy earlier this week to finalize the agreement. Gnonto was later spotted in Fiorentina’s training attire as the transaction neared its conclusion.
Gnonto’s move to Florence is now official
Leeds had made it clear they would only sanction Gnonto’s exit if a replacement attacker could be secured prior to the transfer window closing. As a result, the club is actively pursuing a deal for France Under-21 winger Jean Matteo-Bahoya, presently on the books at Eintracht Frankfurt.
Gnonto originally arrived at Leeds in August 2022 and quickly established himself as a vital member of the squad. Over his tenure at Elland Road, he featured in nearly 150 matches for the Yorkshire outfit.
Forward departs following title-winning season
The winger was instrumental in Leeds’ triumphant 2024/25 Championship run, contributing nine goals and six assists as the team secured the league title.
During the most recent campaign, Gnonto appeared in 29 games across all competitions. His efforts were key in keeping Leeds competitive in the Premier League, while the club also advanced to the FA Cup semifinals.
Viola bolster their attacking options
Fiorentina now have Gnonto at their disposal as they aim to climb higher than their 15th-place Serie A finish from last season. The Italian side is currently managed by Fabio Grosso.
The Florence-based club also reached the UEFA Conference League semifinals in the prior term, providing another objective to target as they gear up for the upcoming season.
Leeds seek a replacement before the deadline
As Gnonto embarks on his new chapter in Florence, Leeds remain focused on finding an attacking reinforcement. Their pursuit of Jean Matteo-Bahoya underscores the club’s determination to offset the departure.
For Fiorentina, this agreement brings Gnonto back to Italy on a loan basis, with the possibility of a permanent transfer incorporated into the terms.