West Ham United and Everton are reportedly interested in signing Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss, as per transfer journalist Graeme Bailey.
The Moroccan joined the Foxes from KRC Genk last summer. He showcased glimpses of his qualities in the Premier League last term, scoring against Tottenham Hotspur.
However, the 21-year-old failed to help his side keep hold of their top-flight status. Now, he has enjoyed a bright start to this season in the Championship, registering two assists in as many appearances.
On TBR Football, Bailey says that West Ham have expressed their interest in signing El Khannouss after being impressed by his recent eye-catching performances. However, apart from the East London club, Everton, Leeds United, and Crystal Palace are also plotting a swoop for him.
The Eagles are currently the frontrunners in this race, and the player is ready to move to Selhurst Park. El Khannouss has been identified as a potential replacement for Eberechi Eze, who has been heavily linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur.
The Leicester City star is valued at around £24m by Transfermarkt and still has three years left in his current contract at King Power Stadium. Therefore, the Foxes are in a strong position to demand a big fee to let him leave.
Battle
Following Mohammed Kudus’ departure to Tottenham, West Ham haven’t decided to sign a new forward to replace him yet. The Hammers even endured a disappointing 3-0 defeat to newly promoted side Sunderland in the opening Premier League encounter last weekend. Therefore, perhaps, Graham Potter is keen on strengthening the frontline to turn the situation around.
On the other hand, Everton have also started the new season with a disappointing defeat against newly promoted side Leeds United. The Toffees have signed Jack Grealish on a loan deal to strengthen the attacking department.
However, he was quiet after coming off the bench in the second half. So, David Moyes is seemingly planning to reinforce the frontline further by signing a new attacker.
El Khannouss is a talented player and could be a shrewd acquisition for West Ham or Everton should either club eventually manage to secure his service before the end of this transfer window.
