Bilal El Khannouss hijack? Three players Leeds could sign instead
Leeds United might have to settle for an alternative now that their pursuit of Bilal El Khannouss could be compromised.
El Khannouss had emerged as a top target for Leeds in recent days. However, while a deal looked to be on the cards, the Whites now face competition for his signature.
With over a week until their opening Premier League game against Everton at Elland Road (18 August), Leeds will not want to take any chances. As a result, an alternative signing appears a likely path.
Josh Brownhill – Free agent
Tottenham have considered enquiring about El Khannouss, who wants to play in the Premier League, according to Ben Jacobs via Last Word On Spurs (5 August).
Should the Lilywhites make their move, the 21-year-old could be tempted by the UEFA Champions League on offer in North London.
Some clubs that have been linked with El Khannouss this summer:
- Leeds United
- Sunderland
- Tottenham Hotspur
Leeds have already bolstered their midfield with the additions of Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff, but are still open to market opportunities. Josh Brownhill has since emerged as a viable option after announcing his departure from Burnley.
While he plays in central midfield, the free agent is also comfortable higher up on the pitch. With his ability to also shuffle into a defensive position, he could be a bargain signing for Leeds this summer.
Florentino Luis – Benfica
As Leeds continues their hunt for another midfielder this window, Florentino Luis has made the shortlist.
The Benfica midfielder has seen his importance diminished at the club after Richard Rios was signed for a record fee. This new development is set to pan out in Leeds’ favour, according to Gianluigi Longari (30 July).
The Portuguese side could now open the door to Luis’ departure, and Leeds, along with Everton and Burnley, have all enquired about a possible deal.
Benfica want around £20million for the defensive midfielder, and El Khannouss is said to have a £22m release clause. As a result, Leeds could use this money to fund Luis rather than splurge on another attacking midfielder.
https://x.com/Glongari/status/1950588561025302552Douglas Luiz – Juventus
Leeds are interested in signing Douglas Luiz from Juventus, with the Brazilian seeing his importance diminish at the Italian club.
The former Aston Villa midfielder has emerged as a viable option for the Whites, with a return to the top-flight the likely outcome this summer.
However, Luiz is open to signing for Nottingham Forest, who will be competing in Europe next season, according to Tuttosport (1 August).
As a result, Leeds will need to speed up their pursuit if they have any chance of signing Luiz this summer.
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