Tottenham make move for Morocco star Bilal El Khannouss as De Zerbi targets creative spark

Tottenham Hotspur have made initial contact over a potential move for Moroccan playmaker Bilal El Khannouss as they continue reshaping Roberto De Zerbi’s squad ahead of the new season.

The north London club have approached the representatives of the VfB Stuttgart midfielder and held discussions with the German side to understand the conditions required to complete a deal, according to reports from FussballDaten.

El Khannouss has emerged as one of the most sought-after young attacking midfielders in Europe, with Premier League rivals Newcastle United and Crystal Palace also monitoring his situation.

Spurs are believed to be prepared to test Stuttgart’s resolve with an offer worth around €30 million plus potential add-ons, although the Bundesliga club are expected to demand significantly more. Stuttgart value the 22-year-old between €40 million and €50 million after his impressive performances over the past year.

De Zerbi’s attacking rebuild continues

Tottenham have already shown a willingness to back De Zerbi heavily in the transfer market as the Italian manager begins building a squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts.

The club have strengthened their defensive options with the arrivals of Marcos Senesi, Andy Robertson and Jan Paul van Hecke, addressing a backline that struggled defensively last season.

Spurs have also invested significantly in midfield, adding Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali as part of a major rebuild aimed at improving control and creativity in the centre of the pitch.

Attention has now shifted towards the attacking department, where injuries have created a need for further reinforcements.

James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski have both struggled with fitness issues, while Xavi Simons’ long-term absence due to an ACL injury has increased the urgency for Tottenham to add another creative presence capable of operating in advanced areas.

Why El Khannouss fits Tottenham’s plans

El Khannouss’ versatility is one of the qualities that has attracted Tottenham’s interest. Although naturally a No.10, the Moroccan international is also comfortable playing from the left wing, giving De Zerbi additional tactical flexibility.

The midfielder has occupied both roles during his spells with Leicester City, Stuttgart and the Moroccan national team.

At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, El Khannouss played a key role as Morocco reached the quarter-finals. Operating from the left side while Azzedine Ounahi occupied the central attacking role, he impressed with his movement, combination play and ability to contribute without necessarily producing goals and assists.

That adaptability could prove valuable for Tottenham, allowing De Zerbi to use El Khannouss on the left while restoring Maddison to his preferred central attacking midfield position.

A partnership between the two creative players could provide Spurs with the technical quality and unpredictability they have lacked in the final third.

Stuttgart hold strong negotiating position

El Khannouss joined Stuttgart initially on loan from Leicester City last September before the Bundesliga club made the move permanent in May.

Since arriving in Germany, the midfielder has made 42 appearances, contributing 16 goal involvements, including nine goals. His performances convinced Stuttgart to hand him a long-term contract until 2029, placing the club in a strong position during negotiations.

The Moroccan’s stock has continued to rise following his World Cup displays, attracting attention from several Premier League clubs eager to bring him back to England after just one season away.