Leeds United are now leading the race for an "incredible" attacker, and they are ready to trigger his release clause, according to a report.
Leeds looking to sign another attacker after Calvert-Lewin
Leeds are closing in on the signing of former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, with David Ornstein revealing the Englishman is now set to undergo a medical before completing a move to Elland Road.
However, Gary Lineker is not entirely convinced the 28-year-old has what it takes to be a success in Daniel Farke's side, saying: "I suppose if you look back at his career there’s been a decent season or two. He’s got all the attributes [but], he’s not a clean finisher and that for a striker is an issue.
"He’s never going to be a 20/25 goals a season player even in a side that’s really attacking and has got creative players. I think in the end in football, you find your level."
While Lineker doesn't believe Calvert-Lewin is cut out to be a top striker even with a playmaker behind him, Leeds are now planning to add a new attacking midfielder to their ranks, and they have moved into pole position in the race for his signature...
According to a report from Caught Offside, the Whites are now leading the race for Leicester City's Bilal El Khannouss, having taken the most concrete steps to secure a deal, amid rival interest from the likes of Newcastle United, RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund.
Having already held talks with El Khannouss' representatives and offered the attacking midfielder a £50k-a-week salary, the Premier League newcomers are now ready to trigger the £24.5m release clause in his Leicester contract.
"Incredible" El Khannouss could flourish at Elland Road
While the 21-year-old struggled to find his rhythm in a very poor Leicester side last season, picking up just five Premier League goal contributions, there are indications the youngster could be a success at Elland Road.
At times in the 2024-25 campaign, the Morocco-born playmaker did manage to impress, being lauded as "incredible" by talkSPORT writer Jack Johnson after impressing in his side's 2-0 defeat against Manchester City.
Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White in action with Leicester City's Bilal El Khannouss
The starlet also managed to make a good impression on Pep Guardiola, having confirmed the Man City boss complimented his performance after the match, saying: "He (Guardiola) said he was impressed by my play today. I am not. I know myself and this is the player I can be. I have to show that every week now."
El Khannouss deserves another chance in the Premier League, and Leeds should look to finalise a deal before Newcastle or Dortmund step up their interest.