Leeds United are claimed to be pressing on with further talks to sign Leicester City attacking midfield star Bilal El Khannouss.
Seven arrivals thus far have largely addressed the back end of Leeds’ squad under Daniel Farke, with the exception of Lukas Nmecha on a free, and the priority couldn’t be clearer.
More goals and creative output is needed in the final weeks of the window, and as league campaigns commence in the coming days, pressure is on United to find solutions.
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Leeds United set for further Leicester City, Bilal El Khannouss talks this week
Leicester City playmaker Bilal El Khannouss was a rare positive in the Foxes dismal instant return to the Championship last season, providing drive, flair and a real spark in their otherwise poor side.
His performances, despite just two goals and three assists in Leicester colours, have alerted multiple top flight clubs including Leeds.
(Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers)
The latest comes from journalist Sacha Tavolieri, who reports that a further meeting is due to take place in the “coming days” for Leeds to advance in their pursuit of the Moroccan.
While Crystal Palace are interested and are capable of offering European football to the 21-year-old, it is claimed that this isn’t a decisive factor for El Khannouss:
🇲🇦❌ Playing in European competitions is not a decisive factor in Bilal El Khannouss’s decision. Leeds United has scheduled a meeting with the player in the coming days, and Crystal Palace could also make a move depending on departures next week.
⏳Wait&See. #mercato #LCFC pic.twitter.com/DHUlwxapfc
— Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) August 6, 2025
The Leicester man holds a reported £24.5million release clause in his contract at the King Power Stadium, but it expires next Friday (15th August), leaving Leeds and others with limited time to strike a deal.
Leeds United must act fast to trigger Bilal El Khannouss clause and make huge signing
At £24.5million, you’re unlikely to find a better value attacking midfielder with Premier League exposure than El Khannouss.
This sort of opportunity is one that Leeds simply have to pursue this week with his release clause expiring in nine days’ time.
When looking at recruitment so far, the focus on physicality has been impressive, but we need to start sprinkling in players with a high technical level that can win games on their own – El Khannouss could be that player.
It’s fairly safe to say that this investment could be worth double to Leeds in 12 months’ time if he helps United stay up.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!