The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Friday 1st August) El Khannouss bid incoming
Good Morning. It's Friday 1st August and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road
El Khannouss bid incoming
Leeds are on the verge of securing their eighth summer signing, with Bilal El Khannouss firmly in their sights. Belgian journalist Santi Aouna leaked the story, revealing that the Whites are preparing to trigger the Moroccan international's substantial £24.5 million release clause, a move that has put other potential suitors on high alert.
News quickly spread that Adam Underwood had held talks with El Khannouss's agent (who also represents Sebastiaan Bornauw) earlier that day, signaling Leeds' readiness and intent to table a monster bid.
El Khannouss is lauded for his exceptional technical and physical attributes. Primarily an attacking or box-to-box midfielder, he boasts great ball control and can also operate effectively on the left wing, showcasing his versatility.
Despite Leicester City's challenging 2024-25 season, El Khannouss was a standout performer, making 36 appearances and directly contributing to eight goals, five of which came in the Premier League. This impressive form has attracted interest from various clubs, including Crystal Palace, while Sunderland have also been monitoring Leeds' transfer targets.
Recent speculation linking Fiorentina’s Riccardo Sottil and Ajax’s Mika Godts have been wide of the mark according to Graham Smyth, but the El Khannouss rumours have certainly put clubs like Spurs, Newcastle and Crystal Palace on high alert, something the Elland Road hierarchy will not be happy about!
Do Leeds need two quality strikers
The Premier League kick-off is less than three weeks away, and while Leeds have been busy shoring up their defence and reinforcing the midfield, the forward line presents a visible and pressing concern.
Currently, Joel Piroe stands as the club's only recognised goalscorer. Lukas Nmecha, despite adding experience, comes with a concerning strike rate and injury history, which likely explains his two-year deal. With Patrick Bamford, Joe Gelhardt, and Mateo Joseph deemed surplus to requirements, the attacking options are alarmingly thin.
Behind the scenes, Leeds are actively pursuing a recognised goalscorer, with names like Rodrigo Muniz and more recently Artem Dovbyk being linked with substantial moves to West Yorkshire. However, the crucial question remains: do Leeds need to sign more than one recognised striker?
Given the expected departure of the trio and Nmecha's fitness track record, relying solely on Piroe, even with a new addition, could be a significant risk. A top-flight season demands depth, tactical flexibility, and cover for inevitable injuries or dips in form.
Bringing in two quality, dependable strikers would not only provide healthy competition but also ensure the team isn't left scrambling should one become unavailable. With the clock ticking, this decision on striking options could define their early season fortunes.