Bilal El Khannouss has set his sights on joining Crystal Palace, with the Moroccan international favouring a move to Selhurst Park despite interest from several Premier League rivals.
The 21-year-old midfielder, capped 22 times for Morocco and scorer of one international goal, has attracted strong attention in the transfer market, with Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United all linked in recent weeks.
However, according to reports from Foot Mercato, the former Genk playmaker has made Crystal Palace his preferred destination.
Palace are preparing for the possible departure of Eberechi Eze, who has been heavily courted by Tottenham.
Determined not to be left short in midfield creativity, the London club has moved quickly to reach a contractual agreement with El Khannouss, who is expected to commit to a four-year deal should terms with Leicester City be finalised.
Negotiations between the two clubs remain the key obstacle.
Leicester, who hold El Khannouss under contract until 2028, have already rejected an opening bid of €23 million from Palace.
The Foxes are insistent that the player will only be released if his €25 million release clause is fully met.
The deadlock leaves Palace with little margin for manoeuvre.
While the difference between the two figures is marginal, Leicester’s firm stance underlines the value they place on El Khannouss, who has quickly become one of the Championship side’s standout performers since his arrival.
Despite the transfer uncertainty, the young midfielder has maintained his focus on the pitch.
In Leicester’s opening matches of the season, El Khannouss has already contributed two assists, showcasing his vision and composure in attacking areas.
Even in Leicester’s recent 2-1 defeat to Preston, his performance was highlighted as one of the few positives in an otherwise disappointing result.
For Palace, securing El Khannouss would represent both a reinforcement of their creative options and a strategic long-term investment in a player seen as one of North Africa’s most promising talents.
His ability to dictate play from midfield, combined with his work rate and international pedigree, has made him an attractive option for clubs across Europe.
As the transfer window enters its decisive phase, all eyes will now be on whether Palace are willing to meet Leicester’s asking price.
Should they do so, El Khannouss looks set to become the latest addition to Oliver Glasner’s squad, as the Eagles attempt to strengthen their position in the Premier League and prepare for the potential loss of Eze.
