Leeds United have reignited their interest in Leicester City’s talented attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, with a meeting held yesterday between the club and the player’s representatives, according to transfer journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
During the discussions, Leeds made it clear they are prepared to meet the 21-year-old’s £24.5 million release clause to secure his signature, signalling their ambition to bolster their squad for the 2025-26 Premier League campaign.
🇲🇦🟡 EXCL: A meeting was held yesterday between Leeds United & Bilal El Khannouss camp, during which #LUFC made clear they are willing to pay £24.5M release clause, with solidarity contribution & taxes to Leicester City available until 15/08. More to follow 🔜 #mercato #LCFC pic.twitter.com/jhjbw3AV9L
— Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) July 31, 2025
A High-Stakes Pursuit
El Khannouss, a Morocco international, has been a standout performer for Leicester City since joining from KRC Genk in the summer of 2024 for a reported £21 million. Despite Leicester’s relegation to the Championship at the end of the 2024-25 season, El Khannouss impressed in the Premier League, scoring two goals and providing three assists in 32 appearances. His creativity, technical ability, and versatility to operate as a No. 10, on the flanks, or in central midfield have made him a prime target for several Premier League clubs.
Leeds, fresh off their promotion to the Premier League as Championship winners under Daniel Farke, see El Khannouss as a key addition to their attacking midfield options.
What El Khannouss Brings to Leeds
El Khannouss has earned praise for his ball control, vision, and ability to break lines with incisive passing, qualities that shone through even in Leicester’s challenging Premier League season. The 21-year-old’s high work rate and comfort in tight spaces make him an ideal fit for Farke’s possession-based system. His standout performances, including a stunning winner against Tottenham, showcased his potential to be a game-changer.
Securing El Khannouss would be a major coup for Leeds United, signaling their intent to compete in the Premier League and build a squad capable of avoiding the relegation battles that have plagued newly promoted sides. The £24.5 million investment would be a bold move, but El Khannouss’s potential to develop into a top-level player makes him a long-term asset for the club.
