Race heated up for potential Leeds United transfer target as Newcastle United enter the fray, hinted by latest reports, with a reported release clause
In the ongoing transfer market frenzy, Newcastle United has shown a keen interest in signing Leicester City midfielder Bilal El Khannouss. With a potential transfer fee around £30 million, the Magpies are reportedly considering triggering his release clause, though some reports suggest the clause may have expired [1][2][3].
El Khannouss, a Morocco international and attacking midfielder, was signed by Leicester from Genk for about £19.5 million in August 2024. He impressed during Leicester’s difficult 2024-25 Premier League season and is seen as a talented player with significant potential. Newcastle’s manager Eddie Howe is eager to add versatile attacking reinforcements, especially with Champions League football to offer this season, making Newcastle an attractive destination for El Khannouss [1][2].
Leicester City are prepared to sell the player to balance finances after their relegation and other sales, such as goalkeeper Mads Hermansen and midfielder Wilfred Ndidi [1][2][3]. Other Premier League clubs, including Leeds United and Crystal Palace, have also expressed interest in El Khannouss.
Meanwhile, Leeds United, who recently lost Manor Solomon to Tottenham Hotspur this summer, are keen to bolster their attacking options following the loan of Mateo Joseph to Real Mallorca and Joe Gelhardt to Hull City. Daniel Farke, Leeds United's manager, has made clear that experienced striker Patrick Bamford is not in his first-team plans this season [4].
Transfermarkt values El Khannouss at €28m (£24.2m). The Belgian-born Morocco international set up two goals for Leicester City on the opening weekend of the Championship season, and he contributed a combined 21 goals and assists en route to the second tier title [1][2].
El Khannouss' potential move could aid Leicester City in their battle against looming Profitability and Sustainability (PSR) charges with the EFL. His current club, Leicester City, has recently sold first-choice goalkeeper Mads Hermansen to West Ham United in a reported £15m deal [1].
Newcastle's interest in El Khannouss could potentially cause disappointment for Leeds United in the transfer market, according to The Telegraph [3]. However, with a release clause of around £24.5 million, the midfielder may not come cheap for any suitor [1][2].
[1] The Telegraph, "Newcastle United eye Leicester City midfielder Bilal El Khannouss", August 11, 2025. [2] BBC Sport, "Newcastle United close to £30m deal for Leicester City's Bilal El Khannouss", August 11, 2025. [3] Sky Sports, "Leeds United face competition from Newcastle United for Leicester City's El Khannouss", August 11, 2025. [4] Sky Sports, "Leeds United manager Daniel Farke confirms Patrick Bamford exit", August 10, 2025.
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