Leeds United face a battle with a Premier League rival for the signature of Bilal El Khannous after the latest update from journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
Having secured the signature of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Leeds’ eighth signing of the summer, Daniel Farke is on the hunt for his final additions of the summer transfer window.
Leeds have been linked with a double raid on Leicester City in recent weeks as they consider a move for attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss. The Whites are also linked with full-back James Justin, with a move being considered before the window closes.
However, Leeds face stiff competition for El Khannouss’ signature, with David Ornstein reporting that Crystal Palace have entered the race for the Moroccan star. Now, Sacha Tavolieri has provided the latest update on the Eagles’ bid as the transfer window intensifies.
Bilal El Khannouss in action during Preston North End v Leicester City - Sky Bet Championship
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Latest update on Leeds United target Bilal El Khannouss
Posting on the social media site X (formerly Twitter), Tavolieri provided the latest update on the negotiations between Leicester and Palace.
According to Tavolieri, Leicester City have rejected Palace’s opening bid for the attacking midfielder; however, talks will continue as the two sides look to strike a deal.
Tavolieri said: “Leicester City continue to reject Crystal Palace’s approaches for Bilal El Khannouss… an improved bid was turned down by the Foxes yesterday… The Eagles and LCFC officials are expected to hold further talks today to make progress on the Moroccan. More soon.”
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But El Khannouss is not Palace’s only option in that position. A report in The Athletic by Ornstein suggests that they have approached Club Brugge about Christos Tzolis, who they also see as a potential replacement for Eberechi Eze.
As things stand, Palace could represent a significant obstacle in Leeds’ pursuit of the talented midfielder.
Bilal El Khannouss in action during Leicester City v Sheffield Wednesday - Sky Bet Championship
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El Khannouss criticised by Leicester City boss
With several Premier League clubs circling El Khannouss, Leicester’s manager, Marti Cifuentes, criticised the Moroccan for his role in their Championship defeat against Preston.
El Khannouss was substituted at half-time in the game and, speaking to the Leicester Mercury after the match, Cifuentes criticised his performance.
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“I wasn’t very happy with Bilal’s performance,” The Leicester boss said, “I was not happy with the whole performance in the first half, about the whole team, so it’s not just about Bilal. But usually I’m more demanding with the best players, and Bilal is a fantastic player.”
As the likelihood of El Khannouss leaving Leicester increases, it appears that his performance level may be suffering as a result.