If you mean a "GRINDING" noise - then it sounds like the constant velocity joint (CV joint) may be failing -OR- if it only happens when you apply the brakes - the brake pad(s) need replacing.
wheel bearing
wheel bearing(s)
If its front wheel drive possibly an axle.
bad wheel bearings will do that, usually in the front.
Worn left front wheel bearing.
Ball join lubrication or change!
the steering wheel wont make the front wheels make noise as there is no generating source from the steering wheel. it will be the other way around.
A bad bearing can cause can the front end of car to make a squeaking noise when turning steering wheel either direction. It can also be caused by bad suspension.
Brakes
97 grand am rubbing/grinding noise from right front that is not wheelbearing or brakes
There are several things that could be causing this noise to come from your front wheel well. You could have a faulty wheel bearing, a brake could be dragging, or a hub is rubbing.
Need to check left front wheel bearing, and CV joint in the axel. It could be the brake pad senor scraping the rotor.