Surprise Arsenal transfer taking shape as Arteta 'approves' €26m deal

Tom Weber
Tom Weber
  • Updated: 6 May 2025 19:02 BST
  • 4 min read
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal
© IMAGO

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has greenlit a move for Leicester City youngster Bilal El Khannouss, according to a report.

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The Morocco international arrived at the King Power Stadium last summer as one of European football's biggest talents after impressing at Genk in Belgium.

STATS
Player image Bilal El Khannouss
Bilal El Khannouss

AM, M (C)

Leicester logo

Leicester

Bilal El Khannouss
Bilal El Khannouss

AM, M (C)

Leicester

Leicester

Premier League

2024/25

  • 30

    Games

  • 2

    Goals

  • 3

    Assists

However, it has been a hugely disappointing season for El Khannouss and Leicester, who have dropped straight back down to the Championship. The 20-year-old has failed to really leave a mark in his first season of Premier League football, recording just two goals and three assists so far.

To be sure, El Khannouss has shown his promise at times, but he has also demonstrated that he is still quite raw. Still, due to Leicester's offensive struggles, his five goal contributions in league play make him one of their more dangerous players.

Given his evident potential, it seems unlikely that the youngster will remain with the Foxes beyond this season. In fact, he is their most valuable player with an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €40.6 million, so Leicester would be well advised to cash in on him.

El Khannouss set for Arsenal?

Whether they will actually receive €40.6m for El Khannouss is a different question. Suitors will be aware of Leicester's recent financial difficulties, and their relegation has only put them in an even weaker negotiating position.

Indeed, according to GIVEMESPORT, it is possible that El Khannouss leaves the club for less than €30m this summer. Arsenal have been linked with a surprising move for the Moroccan recently, and the outlet claims that Mikel Arteta has 'approved' a potential deal.

Bilal El Khannouss
© IMAGO - Bilal El Khannouss

It is asserted that Arsenal could look to test the waters with a €26m offer, although Leicester will likely hold out for a little more considering his value and the fact that they spent €22.5m on him last year.

Arsenal, the report states, are confident that El Khannouss would be a shrewd acquisition this summer.

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