Arsenal Track Bilal El Khannouss for Midfield Reinforcement
Arsenal are looking to officially announce their interest in Bilal El Khannouss, a talented Moroccan who is making a name for himself in the Leicester City side. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder joined Leicester from Genk in August 2024 for a fee of £21m and penned a four-year deal at the Foxes.
Since joining Leicester, El Khannouss has been a bright spot in a challenging season, and the Moroccan has consistently demonstrated his vision, quality, and ability to set the tone. These attributes make him a solid addition for Mikel Arteta’s developing squad.
El Khannouss, renowned for his passing range and agility, is a creative midfielder — a profile that Arsenal are without in their first team. With Thomas Partey and Emile Smith Rowe’s future unclear, Arsenal are looking to build a team of youngsters around Arteta.
The Gunners are not alone in the chase. Napoli, Sevilla and RB Leipzig have also expressed an interest in El Khannouss. However, the Moroccan appears more attracted to Arsenal, enticed by Arteta’s record as a coach in developing young talent.
Strategic Fit and Arsenal’s Midfield Planning
Arsenal’s plan to compete in all competitions next season requires depth and rotation, especially in midfield. El Khannouss is adaptable, able to play as a No. 8 or a No. 10. His capability of operating between the lines alongside his capacity of quick ball progression makes him a perfect fit for Arteta’s high-possession system.
Arteta’s blueprint relies on fluidity of movement, positional discipline and technical savvy — all things El Khannouss has demonstrated on a regular basis in Belgium and at national team level with Morocco. His outstanding displays at 2022 World Cup caught the attentions of scouts across Europe, and served as a launching pad for his status as one of the brightest prospects in Africa.
While still raw in certain areas like defensive positioning and overall physicality, his potential ceiling is high. Arsenal’s focus on youth development ensures they will give him time to settle and succeed at the Emirates.
The club’s transfer strategy this summer has centered on long-term assets rather than short-term fixes. With a blend of youth and some experienced talent already in the team, El Khannouss may be an important piece in the future midfield jigsaw.
Author’s Opinion
Bilal El Khannouss represents a smart signing for Arsenal. He is only 20, making him a potential addition for the future and the first team. Ponying up €30 million for an unproven commodity from an inferior league can appear risky, but Arsenal have taken such strides with players like Martin Ødegaard and William Saliba, and ended up reaping the rewards of patience and trust.
The Moroccan midfielder’s creative qualities and technical ability mirror the club’s style of play. If Arsenal get their man, they would secure a long term playmaker who is one of the best young talents around.
It is critical, however, not to overburden expectations early. Arsenal should allow El Khannouss to settle at his natural pace. Yet his signing would represent a statement of intent from an Arsenal side committed to a smart, long-term strategy.
If the deal comes to fruition, fans should see it not just as the latest signing, but as a piece of a foundation that could lead to sustained success. Arsenal’s pursuit of Bilal El Khannouss is a sign that the club is planning for the long term — and thinking big while doing so.
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