Newcastle United's transfer window so far this summer has been incredibly underwhelming in terms of additions to St. James' Park, with just two first-team stars being confirmed at present - but that could change in the coming months, with the club having 'contacted' Leicester City over a potential move for Bilal El Khannouss to bolster their creative ranks.
The silky midfielder massively impressed for Genk in his nation of birth, as well as becoming a key member of Morocco's squad in recent months - and with his time at Leicester piquing the interest of English sides, the creative spark could see a return to the Premier League after contact between the clubs seeing him potentially join alongside Anthony Elanga, Aaron Ramsdale and imminent arrival, Malick Thiaw.
Bilal El Khannouss in action for Leicester City
The report by Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri states that Newcastle have 'contacted' El Khannouss' camp to ask over the conditions of a potential deal for the Leicester star this weekend - with Eddie Howe keen on boosting his attacking ranks with a potential move for the Belgian-born star.
The Magpies are currently waiting for detailed, specific financial information regarding the exact amount of his release clause before making a move for the 'phenomenal' star, and Tavolieri has stated that there will be 'more to follow' on the playmaker's future as a potential move to Tyneside looks to blossom.
El Khannouss started for the Foxes in their 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday in the Championship curtain-raiser, though it remains to be seen if he'll feature in their upcoming fixtures with various other sides all in the running for his signature.
Newcastle are looking to add creativity to their ranks behind the striker, with Howe having excelled with a 4-3-3 formation based on tenacity, energy and individual skill in his midfield in recent years - but El Khannouss would offer flair and an ability to break the lines against teams who sit deeper, which could also suit Anthony Gordon and Elanga, who are likely to start for the club out on the wings in the upcoming season.
Should Alexander Isak depart, that would undoubtedly give Newcastle the capital to pursue a move for another top striker or two, as well as El Khannouss - and it could see the Magpies in with a real shout of qualifying for the Champions League once again.
The Moroccan international moved to Leicester at the start of last season, making 32 appearances in the Premier League with two goals to his name. However, the Foxes struggled as a whole and were relegated, meaning a return to the top-flight will likely be in his sights.
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