Newcastle United could have another opportunity to pursue a player they failed to sign a few months ago.
The Magpies were linked with Stuttgart’s Bilal El Khannouss during the previous transfer window and confirmed Newcastle’s and Crystal Palace’s interest in his services, but the attacking midfielder instead remained at the Bundesliga side. Now, fresh reports from Germany suggest the situation has changed significantly.
According to Sky Germany and Florian Plettenberg, El Khannouss is actively looking
to leave Stuttgart and is now “open” to a transfer. Per Plettenberg, two unnamed Premier League clubs have already made enquiries, reigniting speculation over a possible move to England.
“🚨🆕 Bilal El Khannouss is one to watch until Deadline Day,” Pleettenberg wrote. “He is open to a move. VfB Stuttgart are aware of the situation but would prefer to keep him. If they were to sell, they would demand up to €60m plus bonuses. There have been two initial enquiries from Premier League clubs, but nothing concrete at this stage.”
The development could put Newcastle back in the conversation after the club’s previous interest in the Morocco international. Newcastle has been a long-term admirer of the 22-year-old, having pursued him last winter before missing out on a deal.
Obviously, Newcastle is now in a very different financial position, with the Magpies surely in a stronger place to make a move following the ongoing summer exodus from Tyneside.
Stuttgart, however, won’t make things easy and is currently demanding around €60 million (plus bonuses) for El Khannouss. That’s way above his market value of €35 million, per Transfermarkt.
El Khannouss had an impressive first full season in Germany, producing nine goals and nine assists after joining Stuttgart permanently from Leicester City on June 30 last year. His performances also earned him a place in Morocco’s World Cup squad earlier this summer, where he started every match.
For now, there is no indication Newcastle has renewed their interest or contacted Stuttgart, let alone submitted a formal offer for the African midfielder.
With El Khannouss reportedly open to leaving Stuttgart—should Newcastle reignite its interest this time around, or is €60 million simply too much to pay? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!
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