Leeds United are already being linked to players ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 49ers will know that any transfer plans they have will be significantly affected if Daniel Farke’s men are ultimately relegated from the Premier League come May, making it all the more important that the Whites stay up this season.
With long-term transfer targets like Harry Wilson being the subject of interest from other clubs, the 49ers must have an extensive list of alternative targets.
Reports suggest that Leeds may also reignite their interest in another name that became familiar to Leeds supporters over the summer.
In step, Bilal El Khannouss.
Leeds still interested in Bilal El Khannouss
El Khannouss, 21, was strongly linked with a move to Elland Road over the summer; however, it never materialised as the youngster left Leicester City to join Bundesliga outfit Stuttgart.
According to a report from SportsBoom, El Khannouss’ Premier League suitors have been “alerted” after his most recent performance in the Europa League against Celtic, with the Moroccan scoring two goals.
Leeds, alongside Tottenham, Crystal Palace and Newcastle, are all credit to have interest in the winger.
However, with Stuttgart having an obligation to buy El Khannouss permanently in the summer for around £17.5million, a potential return to the Premier League may be complicated if Leeds are serious about stepping up their interest in the player.
READ MORE: ‘You can’t play him…’ – Former Leeds United star gives brutally honest Willy Gnonto assessment
Data suggests Bilal El Khannouss has been impressive this season
Given the fact that Facundo Buonanotte has struggled to make a good impression since joining United on loan in January, the fact that Leeds are reportedly interested in a player who can play his position is bad news if the Argentine hoped he could make his move to West Yorkshire a permanent one in the summer.
El Khannouss has had a solid season in the Bundesliga so far for Stuttgart, scoring and assisting three times in 16 league appearances so far this season.
But in the Europa League, El Khannouss has shone even brighter.
Bilal El Khannouss – Europa League Stats (This Season)
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 8 |
| Starts | 5 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 1.22 |
| Scoring Frequency | 91 min |
El Khannouss has been incredibly clinical in the Europa League this season, and if the winger can keep being this ruthless in front of goal, then the 49ers will seriously need to consider stepping up their pursuit to secure the winger’s services.
