Leeds: 'Exciting' 18-year-old could 'force his way in' at Elland Road | OneFootball

Leeds United striker Wilfried Gnonto could force his way into Jesse Marsch’s team, believes journalist Dean Jones.

The 18-year-old is one out of a few young forwards Marsch currently has at his disposal, and Jones thinks all of them have the potential to break into the Whites’ side.

Who are the strikers in Leeds’ squad?

Patrick Bamford and Rodrigo are the two senior options Leeds have. Away from them, the other forwards Marsch has available to him are pretty young and inexperienced.

Gnonto, as already mentioned, is still just 18, while Joe Gelhardt and Sam Greenwood are only a couple of years older.

The Italian, however, was recently signed by the club in a £3.8m deal (via MailOnline), so Marsch may very well have plans for him this season.

In his final campaign at FC Zurich, Gnonto played 36 games in all competitions, scoring 10 goals.

What has Jones said about Gnonto and Leeds?

While Jones thinks the likes of Gelhardt and Greenwood can make a push to get into the Leeds team, the journalist feels Gnonto is the youngster to watch out for.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones said: “I think they all have the potential to force their way in. What I would say is that Gnonto is going to be the one that people have an eye on immediately given he’s just been given a chance, a proper chance, with Italy.”

Will Gnonto become a regular starter for Leeds this season?

That remains to be seen, but you certainly would expect him to get some game time at Elland Road.

Gnonto is obviously a player with a lot of potential, with the Daily Mail’s Matt Barlow hailing him as an “exciting talent”.

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Leeds’ current first-choice striker, Bamford, has also had some injury problems over the last year, while Rodrigo missed his side’s last match just before the international break after he dislocated his shoulder.

When they are not available for selection, which is something both Marsch and his predecessor Marcelo Bielsa have had to deal with, the opportunity to pick up some minutes should be there for Gnonto.

Considering his age, though, it is clear that Gnonto was signed with the future in mind. Still, that does not mean he cannot make an impact now. And already being a full Italy international, the former FC Zurich man has probably proven that he at least deserves a chance at Leeds this season.