Morocco and KRC Genk midfielder Bilal El Khannouss is reportedly attracting attention from several elite European clubs during a career-transforming transfer window.
Still just 19, the teenager could depart Belgium for the first time since joining Genk’s youth ranks in 2019 after emerging via RSC Anderlecht’s lauded academy.
With top Serie A side AS Roma plus Portuguese powerhouse SL Benfica, La Liga’s Atletico Madrid, Marseille, Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig and Turkish heavyweights Galatasaray all credited with interest, a January move seems imminent.
Valued at approximately €40 million after a breakout 18 months, Moroccan international El Khannouss appears primed to seize an opportunity after shining domestically and in Europe.
Capped five times already, the creative left-footer seems set for an AFCON debut this month after Walid Regragui included him in a preliminary Atlas Lions squad.
Despite only turning 20 on January 1st, El Khannouss has rapidly progressed since Genk promoted him into their first-team setup last term.
Operating as a skillful number 10 or versatile wide threat supporting the attack, he produced a string of influential displays to help Genk finish third while reaching the Belgian Cup final last season.
After notching 30 appearances already this campaign, El Khannouss’ vision, passing range and eye for goal has many elite clubs jostling to capture his signature.
Born in Belgium, Morocco moved swiftly to integrate the promising teenager within their senior national side in June.
And if guaranteed AFCON participation is confirmed this week, El Khannouss may celebrate an unforgettable start to 2023 both internationally and at club level.
