“SHOCKING £260M MEGA-BID for Leicester City’s HIDDEN GEM – Club Desperate to Snag Star!”

Bilal El Khannouss is eager to secure a move away from Leicester City before the transfer deadline on Monday evening, with the midfielder determined to return to playing at the highest level.

The 21-year-old was notably absent from Marti Cifuentes’ squad during the 2-0 victory over Birmingham City, with speculation suggesting his focus has shifted due to mounting transfer interest.

Earlier in the summer, Crystal Palace had pushed hard to sign the attacking midfielder and even advanced talks with the Foxes.

However, negotiations eventually collapsed as the Eagles opted to pursue Villarreal winger Yeremy Pino instead.

Interest has not faded, though. Leeds United, who have tracked El Khannouss for some time, could attempt a late move before the window shuts, according to Football Insider on 29 August.

Yet, Bundesliga outfit Stuttgart are now believed to be leading the chase as they aim to finalise an agreement ahead of rival Premier League clubs.

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown previously revealed on 15 August that both Newcastle United and Leeds were keen on bringing El Khannouss in before the market closes.

The Moroccan international’s standout performances in the Premier League last season have kept him firmly on the radar of top-flight clubs, despite Leicester’s relegation.

Although the midfielder still has three years left on his current deal, the level of interest makes his departure increasingly likely.

Palace had once been considered favourites to land him, but their withdrawal has left the door open for fresh suitors from England and Europe to step in.

Meanwhile, Leicester face another potential exit concern. Abdul Fatawu has also been linked with a late move away, with Sunderland showing interest in the winger.

Reports on 20 August indicated the Black Cats were keen, but Leicester’s £30million valuation has proven a major stumbling block.

Given Fatawu’s importance to the squad, the Foxes are unwilling to sanction his departure unless a significant offer arrives.

As a result, Sunderland are now turning their attention to other targets. One name on their list is Red Bull Salzburg forward Adam Daghim, a versatile attacker who previously attracted interest from MLS side Atlanta United in January.

With the transfer window closing rapidly, Leicester may face further pressure to retain key players, but El Khannouss appears increasingly set on leaving the King Power Stadium.