It would be a significant departure from a Premier League career that has, so far, taken in only English and Swiss football since Gnonto left home as a teenager. Fiorentina's interest gives him a route back that had not previously been on the table, and comes at a point where his path at Elland Road has narrowed considerably: last season brought just four top-flight starts, and frustration with that reduced role has followed him into this campaign.
Fitness has complicated matters further. A hamstring injury picked up in pre-season kept Gnonto out of Leeds' opening two league games, though manager Daniel Farke confirmed this week that the 22-year-old was back in group training.
Sporting director Fabio Paratici is leading Fiorentina's efforts, with the structure of any deal, loan or permanent, still to be settled.
Gnonto has been with Leeds United since a £3.8m move from FC Zurich in September 2022, later extended to 2028, and leaves behind 147 appearances and 13 goals should the transfer go through. Fiorentina are working several angles in attack simultaneously, also chasing Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee and keeping Everton's Beto in reserve, so Gnonto's arrival would form part of a broader reshaping of Fabio Grosso's forward options.
Leeds are unlikely to let him leave without cover first, with Daniel James and Harry Wilson his only recognised competition on the flanks. The Italy international once looked destined for a bigger move after a breakout campaign, but injuries and inconsistent form have since slowed his progress, and Fiorentina would represent his clearest opportunity yet to rebuild momentum in familiar surroundings.