“Leicester’s SHOCKING Swap Sensation: DITCHING Bilal El Khannouss for Leeds’ 2024 Dream Signing – Sky Sports Insider Drops BOMBSHELL!”

At just 21 years old, Bilal El Khannouss is already regarded as a highly promising talent with the ability to make an immediate impact.

Known for his set-piece quality, he would complement a Leeds United side that boasts considerable height and physical strength heading into the 2025/26 campaign.

Among the clubs interested in his services, Leeds have shown the strongest intent, with Leicester City expected to part ways with El Khannouss following their relegation from the Premier League.

Reports suggest the Yorkshire club recently held talks with the player’s representatives, and his wage expectations are not seen as a stumbling block for Leeds.

Leicester identify Calvin Stengs as replacement

Leicester appear to be preparing for El Khannouss’ departure by targeting Feyenoord playmaker Calvin Stengs as a successor.

Stengs was previously considered by Leeds as a possible replacement for Georginio Rutter and remains a versatile option capable of playing both as an attacking midfielder and out wide.

Alongside Emi Buendia, El Khannouss is one of four creative midfielders currently on Leeds’ radar. However, Leeds face competition for his signature, particularly from Crystal Palace.

Palace have identified the Moroccan international as a potential successor to Eberechi Eze, with David Ornstein confirming their pursuit has intensified in recent weeks.

Despite this, Leicester have turned down Palace’s initial advances. Talks between the two clubs took place last week but failed to yield a breakthrough, leaving the situation unresolved and keeping Leeds in contention.

El Khannouss is understood to be eager to leave the King Power Stadium, and Palace’s tense negotiations with Leicester have caused the move to Selhurst Park to stall.

Should Leicester secure Stengs, a transfer for El Khannouss could gather pace.

According to Sky Sports journalists Anthony Joseph and Rob Dorsett, Leicester are actively in discussions with Feyenoord, who are open to selling Stengs during this window.

Celtic have also explored a deal for the Dutchman but are unlikely to push forward unless they secure Champions League group-stage football.

Stengs’ recent form and injury record

Stengs joined Feyenoord from OGC Nice in 2023 and enjoyed a remarkable debut season, contributing to 25 goals and attracting interest from clubs across Europe.

His creativity and technical ability made him a standout in the Eredivisie, elevating his transfer value significantly.

However, the following campaign proved far more challenging. The 26-year-old endured a series of injury setbacks, including knee surgery, as well as hamstring and ankle problems.

These fitness concerns limited his appearances and drastically reduced his output. Any club signing Stengs would therefore be acquiring an undeniably talented but injury-prone player.

For now, El Khannouss’ future hangs in the balance. With Leicester preparing for life without him, the battle between Leeds and Crystal Palace could soon define one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the summer.