Leicester City are edging closer to securing an attacking midfielder to fill the void left by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, whose departure to Chelsea under the guidance of Enzo Maresca has left a significant gap in the Foxes’ lineup.
This transfer window has been particularly challenging for Leicester as they’ve struggled to find a suitable replacement for Dewsbury-Hall.
The Foxes have cast a wide net, targeting several high-profile midfielders and wingers. Among those pursued were Wilfried Zaha, Matias Soule, Yaser Asprilla, and Adam Hlozek. However, each attempt has been met with either rival clubs swooping in or negotiations hitting a wall.
While Leicester have made strides in bolstering other areas, notably securing Jordan Ayew from Crystal Palace on a permanent deal, the midfield remains a pressing concern for Steve Cooper.
The need for a creative force in the middle of the park has been evident, despite attempts to lure talents like Matt O’Riley from Celtic. The struggle to fill this role has become emblematic of the Foxes’ transfer woes this summer.
Yet, there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel. Leicester City appear to have made a breakthrough in their quest for an attacking midfielder, and it could be a significant coup for Cooper and his team.
Leicester City Target Bilal El Khannouss Agrees Contract
Leicester have reportedly made significant headway in securing the services of Bilal El Khannouss, a 20-year-old rising star from Genk.
According to transfer insider Sacha Tavolieri, El Khannouss has agreed to a four-year deal with the Foxes. The club is now preparing a bid in the region of £15-20 million to bring the young Moroccan to the King Power Stadium.
El Khannouss has attracted attention from several European clubs, but Leicester now seem to be in pole position to complete the signing. The youngster’s current club, Genk, has made high demands, which have apparently slowed down other suitors, leaving Leicester in the driver’s seat.
Last season, El Khannouss made a significant impact in Belgium, earning comparisons to footballing greats like Luka Modric. His potential arrival at Leicester could provide the creativity and spark that the team has been desperately searching for.
Bilal El Khannouss: A Brilliant Piece of Business
At just 20 years old, Bilal El Khannouss is poised to become a key figure in Leicester’s midfield. Despite his youth, the Moroccan international demonstrated his abilities last season with nine goal contributions in 27 appearances.
Although he lacks Premier League experience, his performances in Belgium suggest he could adapt quickly and make an immediate impact.
From Leicester’s perspective, this transfer represents both a short-term boost and a long-term investment. Should the Foxes find themselves embroiled in a relegation battle this season, El Khannouss’s presence could be crucial.
Moreover, if the worst were to happen, his value is likely to increase after a year in England’s top flight, potentially offering Leicester a substantial return on their investment.
A deal in the region of £15-20 million is a smart move for Leicester. Given the right game time and development under Cooper, El Khannouss could double that valuation in the near future, making this acquisition a potential masterstroke for the Foxes.
The young midfielder’s arrival could finally provide the creativity and dynamism Leicester have been searching for this summer, marking a positive end to an otherwise challenging transfer window.