Bilal El Khannouss rejects €40m Al Ittihad offer to remain in Europe

Moroccan international Bilal El Khannouss has rejected a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabian giants Al-Ittihad after the club submitted an official €40 million bid for the VfB Stuttgart midfielder.

As per reports, Al-Ittihad submitted its offer on Tuesday evening, but El Khannouss turned down the move to the Saudi Pro League, expressing his desire to continue his career in Europe.

The 22-year-old joined Stuttgart from Leicester City last July for €15 million following an impressive season in which he delivered a series of strong performances.

El Khannouss scored nine goals and provided nine assists in 44 appearances across all competitions last season, establishing himself as an important player at club level.

His impressive performances, particularly for the Moroccan national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, attracted interest from several European clubs during the summer transfer window.

Newcastle United reportedly made an inquiry about his availability, while Tottenham Hotspur, Everton and Crystal Palace also closely monitored his situation.

Galatasaray also submitted an offer for the Moroccan midfielder, but Stuttgart were reportedly unwilling to consider proposals below their €65 million valuation.

Stuttgart’s determination to retain El Khannouss appears to have paid off, especially following the departure of Chema Andrés to Brighton on the final day of the transfer window.

Keeping the talented midfielder could prove crucial for Stuttgart as they look to maintain their competitiveness, with El Khannouss expected to play an important role in the team’s plans.

Despite the financial appeal of Al-Ittihad’s €40 million offer, El Khannouss has opted to continue competing in Europe, where he hopes to build on his impressive form with Stuttgart while remaining a key figure for the Moroccan national team.