21-year-old Transfer Target Proves his Worth to Leeds United | OneFootball

Bilal El Khannouss Sends Clear Message to Leeds United Amid Transfer Speculation

Leeds United’s pursuit of Bilal El Khannouss could be reaching a critical point, as the 21-year-old Morocco international continues to impress on the pitch. After some tense weeks of transfer speculation, El Khannouss has sent a clear message to Leeds by showcasing his talents on the field. The midfielder’s performance in Leicester’s opening match of the Championship season served as a stark reminder of the quality he possesses, and perhaps more importantly, what he could bring to the Premier League side.

El Khannouss Shines Despite Transfer Speculation

Despite being at the centre of intense transfer talks between Leicester City and Leeds United, El Khannouss was named in the starting line-up for Leicester’s first match of the 2025-26 season. Taking on Sheffield Wednesday at the King Power Stadium, the Moroccan’s performance offered a resounding statement about his capabilities, both offensively and defensively. Leeds United, who had been monitoring his situation closely, may have taken note of the young midfielder’s ability to make an immediate impact.

The match started on a frustrating note for Leicester, with Sheffield Wednesday taking a 1-0 lead into the break. However, El Khannouss was one of the standout performers for Leicester, creating chances and contributing directly to the team’s comeback. He was involved in two crucial assists, both from set-piece situations, as centre-backs Jannik Vestergaard and Wout Faes found the back of the net. El Khannouss’ key role in Leicester’s recovery underscored his importance to the team.

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Leeds United’s Interest in El Khannouss

Leeds United have shown interest in signing El Khannouss this summer, with the club having held transfer talks over a potential move. Reports indicate that Leicester City are holding out for a £30 million fee if they are to part ways with the midfielder before the transfer window closes. Given his impressive performances last season, and the way he has started the new campaign, it’s easy to understand why Leeds would consider El Khannouss a valuable addition to their squad.

The midfielder’s ability to create chances was on full display against Sheffield Wednesday, as he topped several key metrics, including creating four chances, three big chances, and registering two assists, according to Squawka’s data. These statistics demonstrate that El Khannouss has the creative spark to make a difference at the top level.

Despite a valiant effort from El Khannouss, Leicester’s match finished with a 2-1 victory, and the Moroccan was visibly delighted with the result. In a clip shared post-match, El Khannouss is seen celebrating the win with his teammates, his fist pump suggesting his confidence in his abilities and the team’s chances for the season ahead. Furthermore, his embrace with new Leicester manager Martin Cifuentes after the final whistle reinforced his commitment to the squad, at least for the moment.

What’s Next for El Khannouss and Leeds United?

With the transfer window ticking down, it remains to be seen whether Leeds United will follow up on their interest in El Khannouss. His performance against Sheffield Wednesday only strengthened his case, making it more difficult for Leeds to ignore his talents. However, whether Leicester are willing to part with the midfielder at such a high price remains uncertain. Leeds will have to weigh the benefits of investing £30 million in a player of his calibre against their other potential transfer targets.

El Khannouss has certainly made his mark early in the season, sending a message that he has the ability to make an immediate impact. His creative flair, work rate, and knack for influencing matches could be exactly what Leeds United need to bolster their midfield options ahead of their return to the Premier League. Whether or not he moves to Elland Road is still up in the air, but one thing is for certain: El Khannouss will be one to watch as the season progresses.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Leeds United fan, it’s hard not to be excited about the potential of adding a player like Bilal El Khannouss to the squad. Having watched Leeds dominate the EFL Championship last season, it’s clear that the team has the ambition to push further up in the Premier League. With Daniel Farke at the helm, the Whites have the structure in place to make the most of any new signings, especially those that can add technical quality and creativity to the midfield.

El Khannouss’ performance against Sheffield Wednesday was a testament to his abilities, and he would undoubtedly bring something special to Leeds’ attack. The creativity and vision he displayed in his assist for Vestergaard and Faes, as well as his chance creation throughout the match, would complement the attacking style that Leeds are aiming for in the Premier League.

The challenge for Leeds, however, will be in meeting Leicester’s valuation of £30 million. While that is a steep price for a player who is still relatively young and unproven at the highest level, it could prove to be a shrewd investment if El Khannouss continues to perform at this level. Given his age and potential, the midfielder could be a long-term solution for Leeds’ midfield, adding depth and flair to a side that will need to be at its best to compete in the Premier League.

As Leeds prepare to face Everton in their first league game next Monday, the question of whether El Khannouss will make his way to Elland Road before the transfer window closes adds an extra layer of excitement to an already highly anticipated season. One thing is clear: Leeds United are back in the Premier League, and they’re looking to make a statement with their transfers.