Crystal Palace have turned to Leicester City in their succession planning for the likely departure of Eberechi Eze.
That’s according to Sky Sports who claim the Eagles, who are also in fear of losing captain Marc Guehi, have ‘approached’ the Foxes ‘to discuss a possible deal’ for Bilal El Khannouss.
They claim the deal ‘could be worth in the region of £30m plus add-ons’ for a player who has only been at the King Power Stadium for just under a year.
The 21-year-old arrived from Genk on August 29, 2024 for a reported £21m. Initially he had trouble earning Steve Cooper’s trust but went on to establish himself as one of the few highlights in an otherwise dire campaign with three goals and six assists from his 37 games in all competitions.
He played mainly as a No. 10, although he can operate wide, as does Eze who has been heavily linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur.
Sky Sports say City are prepared to do a deal on the basis they need to ‘meet their PSR obligations’ whilst also generating funds for Marti Cifuentes to bring in his own players before the transfer deadline on September 1.
The story goes on to say Palace are also keen on former Norwich City man, Christos Tzolis who is at Club Brugge and whom Palace are prepared to pay £26m for.
Brugge are currently in Glasgow, preparing to play Rangers in the Champions League qualifier, and even though Tzolis is included in Brugge’s UEFA matchday squad, it is not yet clear if he will feature.
El Khannouss claimed two assists in the opening day win over Sheffield Wednesday but was taken off at half time of the loss at Preston last weekend.
City have Louis Page and Will Alves to choose from in attacking midfield, while they can also drop Jordan Ayew back. Over the past few days, City have been linked with Benfica’s Joao Rego.
Are City right to cash in on El Khannouss? Have your say here
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