Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss is being eyed by Bundesliga giants Bayer Leverkusen to replace Florian Wirtz, reports Sacha Tavolieri.
Leicester City are heading into a pivotal summer transfer window following their relegation to the Championship. Financial uncertainty continues to hang over LCFC, and no official announcement has been made regarding the future of the managerial role.
Ruud van Nistelrooy remains at the helm as pre-season approaches, but widespread reports suggest he is likely to be replaced in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, speculation persists around the futures of several first-team players, with many linked with potential moves away from the King Power Stadium.
leicester city, Bayer Leverkusen eye Leicester City ace to replace Florian Wirtz
Image courtesy of: JASON CAIRNDUFF/REUTERS.
One of those is attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, and a new club has been linked with the Moroccan. German giants Bayer Leverkusen are eyeing a move for the 21-year-old, according to Sacha Tavolieri.
They view El Khannouss as a replacement for Florian Wirtz, who has just joined Premier League champions Liverpool for a record-breaking deal. They have already enquired about personal terms in regards to El Khannouss.
Leverkusen were keen on the Moroccan before he joined Leicester City last summer. They were going to make a move while he played for Genk and have kept tabs on him throughout this season.
A standout performer
Leicester City had little to celebrate last season, and the outlook remains uncertain heading into the new campaign. The threat of PSR regulations is casting a shadow over the King Power Stadium.
However, one bright spark was Moroccan talent El Khannouss. While his performances weren’t enough to prevent relegation, he stood out in a difficult season for the Foxes.
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leicester city, Bayer Leverkusen eye Leicester City ace to replace Florian Wirtz
Image courtesy of: PIROSCHKA VAN DE WOUW/REUTERS.
Primarily operating as an attacking midfielder or on the left wing, El Khannouss contributed three goals and five assists across 36 appearances. At just 21, his quality was evident, and he could develop into a key player at a top-level club soon.
A real rebuild this summer
With finances seemingly tight at Leicester City, some big sales could be needed. El Khannouss will more than likely be one of them, but more players will likely depart.
Along with the outgoings of the playing squad, LCFC are going to need to find a new boss too. With just over a month left until the new season starts, things need to change quickly at Leicester.
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Once the PSR window ends at the start of July, LCFC will likely start making moves. The Foxes cannot afford to get stuck in the Championship long-term.