Leeds United are looking to move on from the disappointment of failing to sign Igor Paixao by making a quick move for another winger on their list – but the competition is growing.
After waiting in the wings for the result of talks involving Marseille and Feyenoord, Leeds were told their £30.3m bid, including add-ons for Paixao, had been accepted via email during the Paderborn game.
But, of course, things never go to plan. Adam Underwood was only marginally confident, and Leeds were always aware he preferred a move to Marseille, who have qualified for the Champions League next term.
Eventually, Marseille got the job done when others felt like Leeds would get their man. It leaves Leeds in search of a new winger and on Wednesday, Leeds held a meeting with Bilal El Khannouss’ representatives.
Manchester United v Arsenal FC - Premier League
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Competition is hotting up in race to sign Bilal El Khannouss
During the meeting, reports say Leeds have informed the Morocco star’s representatives that Leeds will pay the £24.5m release clause sitting in his Leicester contract. That clause expires on the 15th of August.
Crystal Palace are said to be interested in El Khannouss, while it will come as no surprise to read that Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland may consider a move having already signed four players linked with Leeds.
But according to Africa Foot, the interest is only growing. Arsenal and Erik ten Hag’s Bayer Leverkusen are among the clubs considering El Khannouss, as are Serie A giants Lazio and fellow RedBull club, Leipzig.
Leicester City midfielder Bilal El Khannouss
Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images
Leeds table contract offer to sign El Khannouss, the details
Having only just joined Leicester last summer from Genk, the winger would not normally be available. But given Leicester have been relegated, a release clause has now become active in his King Power contract.
MORE LEEDS UNITED STORIES
Leeds are aware of that and willing to pay it, which is a considerable fee below Paixao’s price tag. Leeds are also said to have offered El Khannouss a contract worth £50,000 a week, though the length is unclear.
Given the age of the Foxes winger, contract is likely to be four or five years – the same length handed to Sebastiaan Bornauw, Lucas Perri, Jaka Bijol, Sean Longstaff, Anton Stach and Gabriel Gudmundsson.