For much of the summer, Bilal El Khannouss’ departure from Leicester City has been a talking point. The Moroccan was a bright spark for the Foxes throughout their dismal Premier League campaign, which resulted in relegation. As a result, the player wanted out and was even willing to sit in the stands throughout the whole campaign, if a move didn’t materialise. However, with just a couple of days left in the window, an agreement is complete.
Leicester City Set to Offload Star Player Amid ‘Desire To Leave’
Bilal El Khannouss: On The Move?
As reported by Sacha Tavolieri, El Khannouss looks set to become a VfB Stuttgart player. This comes after approaches from Premier League clubs like Crystal Palace and Leeds United. Saudi Arabian sides also entered the race at one point, but the interest from El Khannouss was lacking. The German side, led by Sebastian Hoeness, has now acquired a talent who could play a prominent role in their Europa League campaign.
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Tavolieri also adds that the 21-year-old will be completing his medical soon, with the two clubs finalising a deal. Furthermore, El Khannouss will sign a four-year deal, which could see him remain in Germany until 2029. The chance to play European football is likely a deciding factor, especially with the World Cup and AFCON on the horizon.
As for Leicester City, the departure would add to the vast number of exits this summer. Five senior players, including Mads Hermansen and Wilfred Ndidi, have already made their moves away, whilst El Khannouss and others could still follow suit. Regarding incomings, free agent Asmir Begovic is the only player through the door.
How Does This Affect Leicester City?
With El Khannouss’ influence in City’s games last season and in the Sheffield Wednesday win, it comes as no surprise that his loss will be impactful. He can pick up the ball from deep and has the passing range to break lines and switch play, whilst also being a threat in the half-space. Although his final third work isn’t perfect, for a player at this age, he is terrific.
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Ruud Van Nistelrooy even hailed both El Khannouss and former City teammate Facundo Buonanotte as “talented” and “gifted”. This was following a 6-2 win against Marti Cifuentes’ QPR last season in the FA Cup. Both players managed two goal contributions as the rampant Foxes made easy work of the now Leicester manager’s squad.
One issue from the move will be the lack of creativity in midfield. With Oliver Skipp, Boubakary Soumaré and Louis Page, City can sometimes lack the control and progression through the midfield. Whilst this may become problematic at times, this same midfield did manage to beat the in-form Birmingham City side on Friday. In addition, money raised from El Khannouss may also help with some new arrivals before the deadline.
