Leeds United chief Paraag Marathe and Leicester City midfielder Bilal El Khannouss
(Credit: Imago)
Aheed Abrar
Sun 17 August 2025 11:10, UK
Leeds United may have an opportunity to pounce on Leicester City playmaker Bilal El Khannouss in the final weeks of the transfer window.
The 21-year-old joined the Foxes last summer and had an impressive debut season in the East Midlands despite being relegated.
El Khannouss has emerged as a target at Elland Road, but it remains to be seen how much he will cost after the Morocco international’s £22.5million release clause expired recently.
Crystal Palace are also eyeing the Leicester youngster, but the West Yorkshire outfit could potentially swoop in soon.
Bilal El Khannouss in Leeds United kit
El Khannouss has been linked with a move to Leeds. (Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media)
Palace fail to reach agreement for Leeds United target El Khannouss
Leicester have rejected an improved bid from Palace to sign El Khannouss this summer, according to Sacha Tavolieri.
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The journalist revealed on X on 17 August that the Foxes continue to reject the Eagles’ proposals for the 21-year-old playmaker.
It’s been claimed that the two clubs will hold further talks in the coming hours for the Moroccan attacking-midfielder’s transfer, but it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
El Khannouss joined Leicester for £21million.
The attacking midfielder had a £22.5m release clause at the King Power Stadium.
The 21-year-old scored two goals and provided three assists in the Premier League last season.
While Leeds held talks with El Khannouss’ camp a while back, they haven’t made any progress on a potential deal since then.
With Palace seemingly pushing for a move, 49ers Enterprises arguably have no time to waste if they want to sign the 21-year-old.
An approach from the West Yorkshire outfit may blow the Eagles out of the water as the Elland Road hierarchy will undoubtedly have to make a lucrative offer to compete with their Premier League rivals.
Read More:Leeds now ‘close to agreement’ on Daniel Farke’s 8th signing of the summer
El Khannouss strengths may prove vital at Elland Road
Ruud van Nistelrooy has described El Khannouss as “skilful and technical”, and Daniel Farke could undoubtedly use those attributes in LS11.
The 21-year-old’s strengths lie in his hold-up play and his dribbling ability, and Leeds fans certainly want more flair in their team.
With the ability to take long shots, the Morocco international could bring an added threat to Elland Road if the Whites do sign him.
Only time will tell whether the West Yorkshire outfit will be convinced to make a move for the young playmaker.
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