Crystal Palace are preparing for life after Eberechi Eze — and have identified Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss as their top replacement.
With Eze strongly linked with Arsenal and Tottenham, the Eagles are wasting no time lining up reinforcements. Journalist Santi Aouna reports that El Khannouss is now Palace’s first-choice target should their star playmaker depart this summer.
The 21-year-old Morocco international impressed in a difficult campaign for Leicester, scoring twice and registering three assists in the Premier League before the Foxes were relegated in May.
Why El Khannouss Is on Palace’s Radar
Despite Leicester’s drop, El Khannouss remains one of the Championship’s brightest talents. He brings quick feet, composure in tight areas, and the kind of progressive ball-carrying that mirrors Eze’s influence at Selhurst Park.
Palace have a proven record of picking up under-the-radar stars from the second tier — Eze himself joined from QPR — and see the former Genk man as another low-risk, high-ceiling opportunity.
“He’s got flair, he’s press-resistant and already tactically mature at 21 — a natural Eze successor,” said one scout tracking El Khannouss closely. — Santi Aouna, Foot Mercato
Crystal Palace’s Transfer Track Record
In recent windows, Palace have recruited wisely from the Championship and smaller European leagues, with Michael Olise, Eze and Cheick Doucouré all proving standout signings. El Khannouss fits that profile and is likely available for a fee well below market value due to Leicester’s relegation.
RB Leipzig are also monitoring the player, but Palace’s concrete interest and Premier League status may give them an edge.
El Khannouss – 2024/25 Stats (Leicester City)
| Stat | Bilal El Khannouss |
|---|---|
| Premier League Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 3 |
| League Cup Goals | 1 |
Analyst Verdict
El Khannouss may not carry Eze’s name recognition just yet, but his ceiling is high. He’s shown he can create chances, carry the ball under pressure, and deliver quality in the final third — all traits Palace rely on in their system.
At 21, he offers long-term value and resale potential, and his price tag is expected to reflect Leicester’s financial constraints after relegation.
Key Takeaways
- Crystal Palace want Bilal El Khannouss as their Eberechi Eze replacement
- Leicester are likely to sell following relegation
- Leipzig and Italian clubs also monitoring him
- Palace could land him for a cut-price fee
- El Khannouss had 5 G/A in the Premier League last season
What’s Next for Palace and El Khannouss?
With Eberechi Eze’s future still uncertain amid strong interest from top Premier League clubs, Crystal Palace are preparing to make a formal approach for Bilal El Khannouss in the coming days.
Leicester City are expected to demand a competitive fee, but Palace’s strategy of early groundwork could give them a clear advantage. Talks with the player’s camp are reportedly progressing well, and a bid could be submitted before the end of the month.
If Leipzig or a Serie A club enter with a formal offer, the race could heat up quickly. For now, however, Palace remain in pole position — and keen to finalise a deal before Eze's potential exit materialises.
Should Crystal Palace act quickly to secure El Khannouss — or risk losing him abroad?
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