Leicester City faced a difficult summer leading into the 2025/26 season, but they kicked off their campaign successfully on Sunday afternoon. LCFC battled back to secure a 2-1 victory over Sheffield Wednesday, marking Marti Cifuentes’ first match with a win.
However, the Foxes have failed to maintain that momentum. They were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by League One Huddersfield Town and then suffered a 2-1 defeat to Preston North End over the weekend.
Somewhat unexpectedly, Bilal El Khannouss was included in the starting lineup again at Preston despite persistent speculation about his future. The Moroccan midfielder, strongly linked with a move elsewhere and reportedly in discussions with Leeds United, quieted the rumors for the day by providing both assists in an impressive display.
According to reporter Sacha Tavolieri, via X, Leicester City have turned down an offer from Crystal Palace for his services. With Palace’s current star Eberechi Eze appearing likely to depart, they are keen to bring in the Moroccan as his replacement.
This is one of several bids Palace have submitted for El Khannouss during this transfer window. Negotiations are expected to persist in the coming days.
Sunderland, Newcastle United, and West Ham United have also shown interest in the LCFC talent.
Bilal El Khannouss could be one of several Leicester City departures:
As the summer transfer window began, Leicester City were widely anticipated to lose two players to higher-tier clubs: Bilal El Khannouss and goalkeeper Mads Hermansen.
Both have been at the heart of transfer rumors throughout the summer, and Hermansen has already moved on, finalizing a transfer to West Ham last week. El Khannouss could be next, but he is not the only potential exit.
Another key figure, Harry Winks, may also be poised to leave during this window. Clubs across Europe are interested in the former Spurs midfielder.
Losing Winks, El Khannouss, and Wilfried Ndidi, who has already joined Besiktas, would be a significant setback. Given the team’s rocky start to the season, this is not a scenario LCFC needs.
His sale could be pivotal in the final two weeks of the window:
Leicester City have repeatedly navigated a delicate balance with financial regulations and faced another breach charge earlier this year, raising the specter of a points deduction.
To alleviate pressure and finance new acquisitions, substantial player sales may be necessary. Losing El Khannouss wouldn’t be ideal given his talent and long-term potential, but a transfer appears probable, with the proceeds possibly reinvested to bolster Cifuentes’ squad.