How much El Khannouss deal could cost as Leeds ready to sign Leicester forward
Leeds are interested in Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss.
The Whites lost out on a deal for Igor Paixao as the Feyenoord star went to Marseille, and have now targeted the Leicester forward to strengthen their ranks.
Despite an abysmal campaign for the Foxes last time out, El Khannouss was a rare positive and would be a strong addition for Leeds.
Daniel Farke’s side have already strengthened their squad with several signings, but do need at least two attacking players, and the true financial cost of a deal for El Khannouss has now been calculated.
El Khannouss deal to cost at least £31.78million
El Khannouss would arrive at Elland Road with a year of Premier League experience under his belt if he is to join, and he would greatly strengthen Daniel Farke’s wing options.
Although the priority is a centre-forward this summer, another wideman is needed if Leeds are to survive in the Premier League, and the Leicester star has now been identified as the main target.
As reported by Sacha Tavolieri (31 July), a meeting was held on Wednesday (30 July), and Leeds are ready to trigger El Khannouss’ £24.5million release clause.
| Appearances | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists |
| 37 | 2505 | 3 | 6 |
El Khannouss is currently on a wage of around £35,000 per week (Capology), which works out at around £1.82m per year.
If he were to join on the same salary on a four-year deal as a likely minimum, this would be a total outlay of £7.28m on wages.
This would therefore make the overall minimum cost around £31.78m, but it is likely to be higher as the winger would likely join on a higher salary than the one he is currently on.
Leeds need another winger
El Khannouss would be an excellent addition for Leeds, despite the strength in depth they already have in forward areas.
Willy Gnonto, Largie Ramazani and Dan James are already options on both sides, and although other areas of the squad are weaker, signing another winger is still important this summer.
If El Khannouss settles instantly, he will bring extra speed and creativity to the front line, and would also arrive as a player with Premier League experience under his belt.
The financial outlay for the 21-year-old is not bad at all, especially considering his potential to be a long-term option at Elland Road, and this would be an excellent deal all round if Leeds can complete the signing in the coming weeks.
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