Exclusive: Leeds Set Sights on Yaser Asprilla as Potential Wilfried Gnonto Replacement

Leeds United are eyeing up Yaser Asprilla as a summer transfer targets if Daniel Farke is forced to source a replacement for Wilfried Gnonto, SportsBoom can reveal. 

The Girona attacker, currently on loan at Galatasaray, is regarded as one of Columbia’s most promising young talents after heading to Spain following a successful spell with Watford. 

Although his association with the Turkish giants would make him a controversial choice among large sections of Elland Road’s support base, given the hatred they possess for Okan Buruk’s side, the fact he is only registered to them on a temporary basis has persuaded the Leeds’ recruitment department to consider compiling a dossier on Asprilla as they look to safeguard against Gnonto’s mooted departure.

Watford Wonderkid 

Aged 22 but already capped 11 times by his country, the former Envigado prospect is acclimatised to English football and versed in the rigors of its game after spending two years with Watford ahead of his switch to Spain. 

Asprilla scored seven goals in 87 outings whilst at Vicarage Road, with his performances there eventually earning him a switch to La Liga.

It was during that stint in Hertfordshire when Asprilla made his senior international debut, having also represented the South Americans at under-20 level.

Although Galatasaray inserted an option to buy clause into the deal which took him to Rams Park, our sources understand that contrary to reports they are not obligated to purchase Asprilla once his temporary agreement there expires. 

His skill set and qualities are remarkably similar to those possessed by Gnonto, who could return to his native Italy this summer after failing to convince Farke that he should be one of the first names on the German’s team sheets.

Juventus are known to be among Gnonto’s admirers and it is understood Roma and Lazio are also monitoring his situation closely.

Asprilla, who is not related to Newcastle cult-hero Faustino, has so far only made one outing under Boruk; a statistic which suggests his future is far from decided. 

Valued at around £25m by Girona, his price tag and salary would also fit within the financial structure Leeds’ owners have established to secure their long-term health.