For much of the summer, Bilal El Khannouss’ potential exit from Leicester City has been a topic of discussion. The Moroccan was a standout performer for the Foxes during their disastrous Premier League campaign, which ended in relegation.
Consequently, the player was eager to leave and was even prepared to remain sidelined for the entire season if a transfer didn’t materialize. However, with just a few days left in the window, a deal has been finalized.
Leicester City Set to Offload Star Player Amid ‘Desire To Leave’:
Bilal El Khannouss: On The Move?
As reported by Sacha Tavolieri, El Khannouss is poised to join VfB Stuttgart. This follows interest from Premier League clubs such as Crystal Palace and Leeds United.
Saudi Arabian teams also entered the fray at one point, but El Khannouss showed little enthusiasm for those offers. The German club, managed by Sebastian Hoeness, has now secured a talent who could play a significant role in their Europa League campaign.
Tavolieri also notes that the 21-year-old will soon undergo his medical, with the two clubs finalizing the agreement. Furthermore, El Khannouss will sign a four-year contract, potentially keeping him in Germany until 2029. The opportunity to compete in European football is likely a key factor, especially with the World Cup and AFCON approaching.
For Leicester City, this departure adds to the numerous exits this summer. Five senior players, including Mads Hermansen and Wilfred Ndidi, have already left, while El Khannouss and others may still follow. On the incoming side, free agent Asmir Begovic remains the only addition.
How Does This Affect Leicester City?
With El Khannouss’ impact in City’s matches last season and in the Sheffield Wednesday victory, it’s no surprise that his departure will be significant.
He can receive the ball in deeper areas and possesses the passing range to break lines and switch play, while also posing a threat in the half-space. Though his work in the final third isn’t flawless, for a player of his age, he is exceptional.
Ruud Van Nistelrooy even hailed both El Khannouss and former City teammate Facundo Buonanotte as “talented” and “gifted”.
This was following a 6-2 win against Marti Cifuentes’ QPR last season in the FA Cup. Both players contributed two goal involvements as the dominant Foxes easily dispatched the squad now managed by Leicester’s current boss.
One challenge from the move will be the lack of creativity in midfield. With Oliver Skipp, Boubakary Soumaré, and Louis Page, City can sometimes struggle with control and progression through the midfield.
While this may pose issues at times, this same midfield managed to defeat the in-form Birmingham City side on Friday. Additionally, funds from El Khannouss’ transfer could facilitate new arrivals before the deadline.