Arsenal’s summer transfer plans seem to be accelerating.
The Gunners brought in Andrea Berta to oversee transfers this summer, and the Italian has been working very hard behind the scenes.
Gabriel Magalhaes’ contract was extended by the Italian, while a new deal has been agreed with Myles Lewis-Skelly too.
To add to that, Martin Zubimendi has arrived in London to complete his move to Arsenal, which is excellent news for fans of the Emirates Stadium club.
Now, it looks like Arsenal are pushing to sign another midfielder.
Arsenal agree personal terms with Bilal El Khannouss
Bilal El Khannouss was one of Leicester City’s most impressive players last season.
The Morocco international played 36 times in all competitions for the Foxes and directly contributed to eight goals in the 2024/25 campaign.
TBR Football revealed in May that Arsenal like El Khannouss, but they were still weighing up whether to make a move at the time.
Now, it looks like the Gunners have taken the first step.
Africa Foot claim that Arsenal are the ‘closest club’ to sign El Khannouss, who is ready to leave Leicester City after their relegation.
The report reveals that the North Londoners have reached an agreement on terms with the player’s agents, and all that’s left is to strike a deal with the Foxes.
Leicester paid £21 million (BBC) to sign El Khannouss from Genk last summer. It remains to be seen how much they will demand for him now.
Leicester City FC v Manchester United FC - Premier League
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What Arsenal privately feel about Bilal El Khannouss
El Khannouss is definitely a brilliant player.
The Moroccan, still only 21, is naturally an attacking midfielder, but he can play as a number eight as well as on the left.
Mikel Arteta, as we have seen over the years, loves versatile players, and TBR revealed back in May that the Gunners believe El Khannouss has ‘huge potential’.
That has been backed by Africa Foot, who claim that ‘Arteta firmly believes in his potential and believes that he can become a key part of his game’ next season.
El Khannouss’ contract at Leicester does not expire until the summer of 2028, but the fact that they were relegated last season should help Arsenal get him for a reasonable fee.