Leeds United have held direct talks with Bilal El Khannouss’ representatives and expressed their intention to trigger his €26m release clause at Leicester City.
Leeds United have opened talks to sign Bilal El Khannouss from Leicester City, with the club now willing to activate his €26m release clause, according to multiple reports.
Journalists Ben Jacobs, Sacha Tavolieri and Santi Aouna both report that a meeting took place on Wednesday between Leeds and the player’s agents. During that conversation, Leeds United made it clear they want the Moroccan international — and are prepared to pay what it takes to land him.
The clause reportedly expires on August 15, meaning Leeds have just over two weeks to get the deal done before the option lapses.
€26m Release Clause Confirmed — But There’s a Deadline
Multiple sources confirm El Khannouss has a €26m release clause, which includes taxes and solidarity payments due to Leicester. However, that clause is only active until August 15 — after which any deal would be subject to negotiation.
“Leeds made it clear to the player’s entourage they are ready to pay the release clause. The meeting was productive — now they have two weeks to activate it.” — Sacha Tavolieri (Belgium)
The midfielder has also attracted interest from clubs in Europe and Saudi Arabia, but Leeds have moved quickest — and made their intentions clear early.
Why Leeds Want El Khannouss Now
Daniel Farke is keen to strengthen midfield options ahead of what Leeds hope will be to fight for their place in the Premier League. El Khannouss — who was signed by Leicester from Genk — has long been seen as a technically gifted No.8 who thrives in transitions and link play.
With Leicester relegated and a clause in place, Leeds see the opportunity to sign a top-level young midfielder for a fixed fee that won’t be available beyond mid-August.
Bilal El Khannouss – 2024/25 Stats (Leicester City)
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 31 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Chances Created | 38 |
| Pass Accuracy | 86% |
Analyst Verdict
El Khannouss would be a statement signing for Leeds. At 20 years old, he’s already shown maturity and class in both the Premier League and international fixtures for Morocco. The fixed clause gives Leeds a rare chance to secure a £20m-level player without a bidding war — but they must act fast.
Key Takeaways
- Leeds have held direct talks with El Khannouss’ camp
- Club are willing to trigger his €26m Leicester release clause
- Clause includes taxes and expires on August 15
- Other clubs are circling — but Leeds have moved first
- El Khannouss made 31 appearances last season for Leicester
What’s Next for Leeds United?
Leeds are expected to return with a formal offer in the coming days. If the player gives the green light, the club will look to trigger the release clause before August 15 to avoid open-market negotiations.
El Khannouss is open to a move — especially with guaranteed minutes under Daniel Farke and the chance to help Leeds to stay in the Premier League. A quick breakthrough is possible.
Should Leeds activate the clause now — or risk losing El Khannouss to a bigger club?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 31 Jul 2025 17:52
From Paixao to this....
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