RB Leipzig Line Up Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss as Xavi Simons Exit Looms
RB Leipzig are reportedly preparing a move for Leicester City midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, who is being seen as a potential replacement for Xavi Simons, amid growing speculation the Dutch international will leave the Bundesliga club this summer.
Simons is currently being heavily linked with Chelsea, and with Leipzig failing to qualify for European football next season, the 21-year-old Dutchman is understood to be keen on a move away, with ongoing negotiations for his £60 million ($79m) transfer.
Bilal El Khannouss Attracting Growing Transfer Interest
According to reports, El Khannouss is valued at €26 million (£22.5 million) by Leicester City, who were relegated from the Premier League last season. Despite the drop to the Championship, the Morocco international impressed with 3 goals and 5 assists in 36 appearances.
Now, RB Leipzig, Leeds United, West Ham United, Crystal Palace, and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli are all believed to be tracking the highly-rated midfielder. However, Leipzig’s pursuit will likely depend on whether Simons finalizes a move away from the Red Bull Arena.
Chelsea Not Yet Close to Sealing Simons Deal
While Chelsea remain in the lead to sign Xavi Simons, a deal is far from completed. The Blues are locked in advanced talks for the Dutch playmaker, who has been valued at £60 million, but no agreement has yet been reached.
Simons had an impressive spell at Leipzig, and his departure would leave a creative void — one that Bilal El Khannouss could be poised to fill.
Why El Khannouss Is in High Demand
Despite Leicester City’s relegation, El Khannouss was a standout performer in the midfield. At just 21 years old, the Morocco international boasts impressive technical ability, vision, and composure on the ball — attributes that have made him one of the most exciting young midfielders outside Europe’s top five leagues.
His performances have not only attracted interest from Bundesliga and Premier League clubs, but also from Middle Eastern giants Al-Ahli, who continue to invest in young European talent.
El Khannouss by the Numbers (2023–24 Season)
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Appearances: 36
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Goals: 3
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Assists: 5
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Key Passes per 90: 1.8
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Dribble Success Rate: 74%
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Pass Accuracy: 86%
The stats highlight his creativity, consistency, and tactical maturity, making him an ideal fit for Leipzig’s midfield rebuild — should Simons depart.
Financial Pressure on Leicester May Force Sale
Leicester City are open to selling El Khannouss for €26m, which could help alleviate financial strain after dropping into the Championship. The club will need to balance the books and potentially offload high-value assets to fund a competitive squad for promotion.
Given El Khannouss’ ambition to play at the highest level and Leicester’s current position outside the top tier, a move this summer appears increasingly likely.
Conclusion: Leipzig Ready to Act Fast if Simons Moves
RB Leipzig are strategically positioning themselves to act swiftly if Chelsea or another top club finalizes a deal for Xavi Simons. Bilal El Khannouss represents a cost-effective, high-upside signing who can step into a key creative role.
However, with Premier League clubs circling, Leipzig will need to act quickly — or risk losing out on one of Europe’s most promising midfield talents.
