“Leeds in SHOCK TALKS to Sign STAR Player This Week After SECRET Encouragement – You Won’t BELIEVE Who’s Headed to Elland Road!”

Leeds United have set their sights on Leicester City playmaker Bilal El Khannouss, viewing him as a potential successor to Brenden Aaronson in Daniel Farke’s midfield setup this summer.

Reports indicate that the 21-year-old Moroccan could be available for around £22 million, courtesy of a release clause in his contract, while his wage demands are not expected to pose any problem.

According to Beren Cross, Leeds’ interest in El Khannouss remains strong.

Although nothing concrete has yet materialised, developments are unfolding quickly.

Tottenham Hotspur are also keeping tabs on the midfielder as they prepare for Son Heung-min’s departure, while Sunderland are reportedly monitoring the situation as well.

Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen have shown interest too, impressed by El Khannouss’ performances despite Leicester’s relegation, but neither have advanced talks.

Leeds, however, are believed to be the only club to have made a formal enquiry.

Earlier this summer, El Khannouss was named in a speculative ‘dream XI’ for Leeds, and interest has since intensified.

The club reportedly met with his representatives last Wednesday to discuss a potential move.

While some Leeds supporters have raised concerns about his lack of direct goal contributions last season, his technical skill and creativity are widely recognised. Notably, El Khannouss featured in Leicester’s pre-season fixture on Sunday.

Crystal Palace are emerging as another strong contender for his signature, identifying El Khannouss as a possible replacement for Eberechi Eze should the England international leave.

According to Sky Sports Switzerland’s Sacha Tavolieri, playing in European competitions will not be a decisive factor in the midfielder’s next career move.

Tavolieri adds that Leeds are planning another meeting with the player in the coming days, while Palace’s pursuit could hinge on outgoing transfers over the next week.

El Khannouss has earned praise from some of football’s biggest names. Speaking about a previous encounter with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, the Moroccan revealed:

“He said he was impressed by my play today. I am not. I know myself and this is the player I can be. I have to show that every week now.”

Former Leicester City manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has also spoken highly of him. In a February 2025 press conference, the Dutchman remarked:

“I think you’re going to see a lot more of him with his age and profile. With his work rate in training, he’s improving on a daily basis.

“The challenge for him is, at his young age, pushing himself to finally know where his ceiling is. His potential is there to be a top player in Europe in the Champions League, I think that’s where his potential is.”

With multiple clubs circling and Leeds seemingly leading the chase, the coming days could be decisive in determining whether El Khannouss becomes the creative heartbeat of Farke’s side next season.