West Ham are reportedly locked in a tight transfer battle with Sunderland for Leicester City playmaker Bilal El Khannouss, according to [L’Équipe](https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/).
Sunderland have been impressively proactive in the [transfer](https://www.claretandhugh.info/west-ham-transfer-news/) market since securing Premier League promotion, already pipping West Ham to the signing of Habib Diarra. And now it appears the Black Cats are leading the race for another Hammers target in El Khannouss.
The Moroccan international caught the eye in his debut Premier League season following a £21 million move from Genk last summer. Despite Leicester’s relegation, El Khannouss stood out as a bit of a baller in a poor Foxes team.
According to L’Équipe, Sunderland currently hold the advantage, but West Ham and Ligue 1 side Monaco have also registered strong interest.
The 20-year-old notched three goals and five assists in 33 league appearances and has been noted for his vision, close control, and tactical versatility. Comfortable as both a No.10 and a more advanced No.8, El Khannouss could inject the kind of spark that West Ham’s midfield desperately needs.
With Mohammed Kudus already sold and Lucas Paquetá’s future uncertain, the need for a sprinkle of magic and some creativity at London Stadium is urgent.