Galatasaray and Newcastle target Stuttgart’s £43m-rated Morocco playmaker Bilal El Khannouss

Stuttgart are demanding between 40m and 50m euros – and potentially more – for Morocco international Bilal El Khannouss after rejecting an official offer from Galatasaray this summer, according to Burle Junior.

Galatasaray remain keen on the 22-year-old attacking midfielder and briefly discussed his situation with Stuttgart representatives when the clubs met in the Champions League last week. The Turkish side could therefore return with a new proposal in the coming months.

However, Galatasaray face competition from Newcastle, who are also monitoring El Khannouss closely. Interest from both clubs could lead Stuttgart to increase their demands for a player they regard as one of their most valuable attacking assets.

El Khannouss has attracted attention because of his technical ability and his skill in operating between the lines. Those qualities have made him a target for several European clubs, despite his current valuation of 35m euros on Transfermarkt.

His position is strengthened by a contract with Stuttgart that runs until 2030. Any club hoping to sign him is therefore likely to have to pay considerably more than his estimated market value, with the total cost potentially reaching 50m euros or more.

Galatasaray’s interest may be further encouraged by El Khannouss’ reported preference for the club. “If I play in Turkey, it will only be for Galatasaray,” he has said.

The Morocco international joined Stuttgart’s first-team picture as an attacking midfielder and has now become one of the most sought-after players in the German club’s squad. Stuttgart’s decision to reject Galatasaray’s initial bid indicates they have no intention of allowing him to leave for a reduced fee.

Newcastle’s involvement could complicate Galatasaray’s plans, with the Premier League club’s interest offering Stuttgart the possibility of a bidding contest. For now, the German side’s position is clear: El Khannouss will only be considered for a transfer if their financial demands are met.