Newcastle explore move for Stuttgart’s Bilal El Khannouss should Matias Fernandez-Pardo deal fail | OneFootball

Newcastle United are exploring the possibility of signing VfB Stuttgart’s Bilal El Khannouss (22), according to reports from the French media outlet Foot Mercato.

Having been on the hunt for attacking reinforcements for several weeks, and faced with the complexity of the situation surrounding LOSC Lille’s Matias Fernandez-Pardo (21), the Magpies are said to have identified the Moroccan as a credible alternative to the Belgian.

Reportedly on Galatasaray’s radar but blocked by his club’s management – who are demanding a fee higher than the €22m offered by the Turkish side – El Khannouss could soon be the subject of interest from the English club. For his part, whilst staying in Germany and experiencing the Champions League with Stuttgart was initially his preference, the 22-year-old is now said to be open to the idea of joining the Premier League, with the prospect of a move to Newcastle particularly appealing to him.

Having made 41 appearances in all competitions for VfB last season, El Khannouss stood out with nine goals and seven assists.

GFFN | Léo Aschi