Wilfried Gnonto transfer questioned after Leeds United sanction Fiorentina move

Wilfried Gnonto's move from Leeds United to Fiorentina has already been questioned in Italy, with journalist Sandro Sabatini unconvinced that the winger represents a significant upgrade for the Serie A club.

Leeds allowed the 22-year-old to leave late in the summer transfer window, with Fiorentina completing an initial loan agreement that includes a €15million option to buy.

The move gives Gnonto an opportunity to revive his career after struggling to build consistent momentum at Elland Road.

Fiorentina significantly reshaped their attack during the closing stages of the window.

Moise Kean's departure to Como resulted in Beto arriving permanently from Everton, while Alieu Njie joined from Torino. Mateo Pellegrino was another attacking addition.

Gnonto provides another option, but Sabatini has reservations about Fiorentina's decision to bring him in.

“Fiorentina's transfer window is a 6-point one at best,” Sabatini said when assessing their business.

He described Njie as a gamble before raising even greater doubts about Gnonto.

“But Gnonto? What new things do you want to discover? His value has been known for years, and honestly, he leaves more than a few questions.”

Those comments highlight the challenge awaiting the Leeds loanee in Florence.

Despite being an Italy international, Gnonto has never played senior club football in Serie A.

He could also begin behind Njie in Fiorentina's options on the left, meaning there is no guarantee of regular starts.

The move therefore represents an important opportunity for Gnonto to rebuild his reputation rather than an automatic promotion into a leading role.

Leeds will also be watching closely. Fiorentina's €15m purchase option gives the Championship side the possibility of a permanent resolution next summer, but Gnonto will have to produce enough during his loan spell to convince the Italian club to activate it.

At 22, there is still plenty of time for the winger to change perceptions. His challenge now is turning a transfer already being questioned in Italy into the fresh start his career needs.

Gnonto must earn his place in Fiorentina's attack and prove he can make an impact in Italian football.

His performances this season will ultimately determine whether Fiorentina consider the €15m purchase option worthwhile or whether the winger returns to Leeds next summer.