Bilal El Khannouss was a primary target for Leeds on transfer deadline day in September.
The Morocco international was left out of two Championship games at Leicester as he awaited a move following their relegation, with Tottenham and Crystal Palace in the mix along with the 49ers.
Leeds were in talks to sign El Khannouss as Daniel Farke aimed to bolster his attack late on in the window.
Bilal El Khannouss ultimately opted for a move to Germany with VfB Stuttgart – where he is showing Leeds exactly what they missed out on.
SportBild label Bilal El Khannouss the “difference” for VfB Stuttgart after Leeds saga
The Moroccan has enjoyed a strong start to life in the Bundesliga, netting three goals while also providing two assists in 11 games for VfB Stuttgart so far.
This has now led SportBild to describe El Khannouss as the “difference” for the German outfit so far this term, as his arrival coincided with VfB Stuttgart embarking on a run of five consecutive wins in the Bundesliga – putting them fourth in the table.
It is a painful development for the Whites as Farke struggles to squeeze goals from his side – only Nottingham Forest and Wolves have scored fewer times (7) in the Premier League this season than Leeds’ total of nine.
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VfB Stuttgart can also sign El Khannouss permanently for just £22m – which represents a bargain if he can maintain this form – and SportBild say it is practically a certainty this purchase clause will be triggered.
Leeds have two January targets in mind after Bilal El Khannouss failure
The El Khannouss ship has sailed, with Leeds already considering other attackers.
Leeds United News understand Haji Wright is being scouted ahead of the winter transfer window after an excellent start to the season with Coventry, netting nine goals in 15 appearances.
Haji Wright in action for Coventry during a Championship clash against West Brom
Photo by Malcolm Couzens/Getty Images
Sources add that Leeds also like Ismael Saibari of PSV Eindhoven – who has scored ten goals in 16 games across all competitions so far this term.
Due to PSR, sales need to happen before any incomings are made, but the fact Leeds are lining up targets suggests the 49ers are confident of overseeing some outgoings.