West Ham United are targeting Leicester City midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, with talkSPORT reporting that the 20-year-old has a £22.5 million release clause triggered by the Foxes’ relegation to the Championship.
El Khannouss, a Moroccan international, is seen as a serious option as the Hammers look to strengthen their midfield under Graham Potter. The existence of a relegation clause in his contract makes him a far more attainable target this summer, and sources suggest West Ham are now actively monitoring his situation.
West Ham Make Enquiries Over Leicester Midfielder Bilal El Khannouss
According to OneFootball, the Hammers have already made enquiries about El Khannouss following Leicester’s drop into the second tier. The creative midfielder only joined earlier this year, but the relegation has now opened the door for rival clubs to swoop in.
Late-season performances highlighted his promise, and West Ham see him as someone who could bring technical flair and control in central areas, qualities the squad has lacked in recent windows.
With the release clause removing the need for tough negotiations, El Khannouss fits the profile of a smart, value-driven signing.
West Ham Continue Midfield Overhaul With Multiple Targets
While El Khannouss remains firmly on the radar, West Ham are casting a wide net in their search for midfield reinforcements. James McAtee of Manchester City is another name reportedly being considered.
Sky Sports reports the 21-year-old is still undecided on his future, though Eintracht Frankfurt and Nottingham Forest are also in the mix. West Ham haven’t made anything official just yet, but talks remain ongoing as they continue assessing key positions.
Hammers Leave Door Slightly Open for Elliott Pursuit
There’s also continued chatter around Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott, though recent signs suggest that deal may be a longer shot.
A club spokesperson told Hammers News: “It’s a tough market this summer, but with Elliott there is a chance. It is only a small chance, but never say never.”
That short comment may not confirm anything concrete, but it shows the club is keeping several doors open going into a pivotal window.
El Khannouss Deal Could Mark Key Step Under Potter
El Khannouss’s age, international pedigree, and style of play tick a lot of boxes for West Ham, especially under a manager like Potter who values intelligent, technical players in midfield roles.
With a clear path to signing the youngster thanks to the £22.5m clause, West Ham have a golden opportunity to land a long-term asset without overpaying.
No official bid has been made yet, but with the price and circumstances aligned, this feels like a deal West Ham may look to press on with sooner rather than later.
