Crystal Palace have lined up Bilal El Khannouss as their number one target should Eberechi Eze leave the club this summer, according to reports from Foot Mercato. The Moroccan international, currently with Leicester City, is also attracting interest from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, who have placed him on their shortlist as they prepare for possible changes in midfield.
🚨EXCL: 🔵🦊 #Championship |
— Santi Aouna (@Santi_J_FM) July 28, 2025
❗️Bilal El Khannouss is the first choice of Crystal Palace if Eberechi Eze leave the club
➡️ He is also in the short list of RB Leipzig https://t.co/iCIHesMKgW pic.twitter.com/XlikniqmIy
El Khannouss a Ready-Made Eze Successor
Palace are preparing for the potential exit of Eze, who has been linked with several top Premier League clubs. Should the attacking midfielder depart Selhurst Park, the club sees El Khannouss as a like-for-like replacement—someone who can bring similar creativity, flair, and technical quality to the heart of their attack.
The 21-year-old impressed last season despite Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League, showcasing his ability to drive forward with the ball, break defensive lines with his passing, and contribute both goals and assists. His performances, particularly his maturity in possession and vision, have not gone unnoticed across Europe.
RB Leipzig Also in the Race
El Khannouss is not only on Palace’s radar. German side RB Leipzig are also monitoring the midfielder closely. Leipzig are known for targeting young, high-upside talent and are believed to be considering El Khannouss.
Reports indicate that Leipzig have already placed El Khannouss on their shortlist and are seriously considering a move, depending on developments with their current squad. Their recruitment strategy would suit the Moroccan well, offering him a platform to play at a high level.
Rising Star
Born in Belgium, El Khannouss represents Morocco at international level and was part of their 2022 World Cup squad. He initially rose through the ranks at Genk, where he was named the Belgian Pro League’s Young Player of the Year in 2024. A move to Leicester followed, where he quickly adapted to the English game.
His intelligence on the pitch, ability to read the game, and technical execution make him one of the most promising midfielders of his age group in Europe.
Leicester reportedly value the player between €26 million and €30 million, a reasonable figure given his contract runs until 2028 and his age and potential. Palace could act quickly if Eze’s departure becomes imminent.
