Bilal El Khannouss’ situation has dominated Leicester City’s transfer activity for much of the summer. The Moroccan is one of the club’s most valuable assets, especially considering he signed just over a year ago for £21 million. In his first Premier League campaign, he tallied two goals and three assists, but it was his work outside of these contributions that stood out. Therefore, with his move away in jeopardy, he could continue to be the Foxes’ talisman in the Championship.
Bilal El Khannouss’ Deal With Premier League Side Collapses Due To Leicester City Fire Sale
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As reported by Rob Dorsett, El Khannouss’ proposed deal to Crystal Palace has collapsed. As a result of Eberechi Eze’s links elsewhere, City’s playmaker has been a target for Oliver Glasner’s side for much of the summer. The chance to play in Europe was also a factor in enticing the midfielder, as he wants the move away from Leicester.
Dorsett adds that it would now take £35 million to complete a deal for El Khannouss, due to a release clause expiring recently. Palace “now won’t pay” the increased fee, which is no surprise given their interest in Villarreal’s Yeremy Pino.
A further reason for the Foxes’ demands is that there is no longer a need to comply with PSR. James Justin and Kasey McAteer’s moves alongside Wilfred Ndidi and Mads Hermansen have helped the club financially, as by the books, they have made a profit. They are no longer desperate to sell their key players, and can now demand higher prices, similar to how fellow relegated teams Ipswich and Southampton have.
Keeping El Khannouss or selling him for a lucrative fee provides the Foxes with a major boost. If a club do pay the £35 million required, then City will be able to find a suitable replacement, whilst also strengthening elsewhere. Links with Calvin Stengs and Joao Rego have previously emerged, as either of the players could fill the void left by the Moroccan.
Likewise, if he does stay, then it could be a game-changer. A talent described as ‘unbelievable’ by Jamie Vardy, and has all the attributes to flourish under Marti Cifuentes. He likes to drop deep, dictate play, and become involved during build-up, which is an asset his manager certainly appreciates. Although he hasn’t necessarily been at his best this season, once he knows his future, he should settle.
Even during the Sheffield Wednesday game, he still stole the show with two set-piece assists, three big chances created and 85 total touches. If a new centre forward can be identified, the Foxes’ attack could be deadly this season as they have also kept hold of Jeremy Monga, Abdul Fatawu and Stephy Mavididi.
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