Finally, Leeds United look set to end their drought in the transfer market after going almost three weeks without a new signing, with their eighth summer addition in Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
So often is the way in the transfer market that when one comes through the door, another quickly follows. It happened when Leeds were in Germany, when Lucas Perri arrived soon after Anton Stach.
Whether Calvert-Lewin ends Leeds’ pursuit of a striker remains to be seen, with Leeds fans unsure about his arrival, but the club will certainly keep looking for a no.10 addition and a new left-sided winger.
Leeds are yet to replace the loss of Manor Solomon, even though Jack Harrison has returned to Elland Road and Brenden Aaronson has lacked competition ever since he came back to Leeds 12 months ago.
Leeds on pole for Bilal El Khannouss despite Germany interest
Interest in Bilal El Khannouss is nothing new, after Leeds held talks with El Khannouss’ camp earlier this month. They informed his representatives that they would pay the release clause sitting in his contract.
Whether that remains active, is unclear. It has since been claimed that El Khannouss is valued at £29m, after his two assists for Leicester against Sheffield Wednesday. Newcastle have also shown interest.
But a report on Wednesday states that Newcastle are signing Jacob Ramsey instead of El Khannouss. Now, Caught Offside claim Leeds are on pole to sign him, helped by Newcastle ending their interest.
The Toon are not Leeds’ only rivals with Bundesliga giants Dortmund and Leverkusen also interested in a move. But, Leeds are said to be leading the race and have even offered El Khannouss a £50k-a-week deal.
After Calvert-Lewin’s arrival as the club’s eighth summer signing expected to be announced in the next day or so, El Khannouss could well follow Calvert-Lewin as Leeds’ ninth addition in the coming days.
Leicester manager opens door to possible El Khannouss sale
Speaking after watching El Khannouss produce two assists from set-pieces to beat Sheffield Wednesday and come from behind against Leeds’ rivals, Leicester boss Marti Cifuentes spoke on El Khannouss’ future.
The Spanish gaffer is clearly aware that Leicester are probably going to cash in on the Morocco star prior to the September 1 deadline. He spoke about how he would replace El Khannouss when and if required.
“If someone leaves, it is my job to try to see how we can use our strengths and quality. If I think we need something, I will look into the academy to find a player who can do this role. If not, we go to the market.”
It will be interesting to see how Daniel Farke would use El Khannouss. Pre-season has shown Farke oust the no.10 role for another midfielder and it may see El Khannouss play out wide, replacing Solomon.
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