Summer Target Bilal El Khannouss Could be Available In January For €40m

Newcastle United could be handed another opportunity to secure the signing of long-term transfer target Bilal El Khannouss, with VfB Stuttgart reportedly prepared to consider offers of around €40 million for the Moroccan international ahead of the January transfer window.

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder was heavily linked with a move to St James’ Park during the summer, with Newcastle exploring the possibility of bringing him to Tyneside as part of Matthias Jaissle’s attacking rebuild.

However, despite reported contact and interest from the Magpies, a transfer failed to materialise, with Stuttgart placing a significant valuation on one of their most talented attacking players.

That situation could now be changing.

According to Sky Germany, Stuttgart have significantly reduced their previous demands for El Khannouss, with the Bundesliga club reportedly prepared to discuss a potential departure for approximately €40 million, including performance-related bonuses.

This represents a considerable reduction from the €65 million valuation reportedly placed on the Moroccan during the summer, when Newcastle, Galatasaray and Saudi Arabian clubs were among those monitoring his situation.

The latest development could put Newcastle firmly back in the conversation, particularly given their previous interest and the fact that the player has already demonstrated an openness to returning to English football.

Newcastle’s Previous Interest

Newcastle’s interest in El Khannouss gathered momentum during the closing stages of the summer transfer window.

Following difficulties in their pursuit of Lille attacker Matias Fernandez-Pardo, the Magpies reportedly explored alternative attacking options, with the Stuttgart midfielder emerging as a potential target.

Reports from Germany suggested Newcastle had made contact regarding the player’s availability, although no formal negotiations between the clubs were confirmed.

El Khannouss was understood to be an attractive option because of his technical ability, versatility and experience of English football following his previous spell with Leicester City.

The Moroccan can operate as an attacking midfielder, play centrally or provide creativity from wider positions, potentially offering Jaissle another dimension in the final third.

With Newcastle looking to build a squad capable of competing across multiple competitions, his arrival could provide additional quality and competition for places.

Why Stuttgart Could Consider A January Sale

Despite El Khannouss only completing his permanent move from Leicester City last summer, Stuttgart could reportedly be willing to listen to offers.

The German club initially secured his services on loan before activating their purchase arrangement, with the permanent transfer reportedly costing approximately €15 million.

His contract at Stuttgart runs until 2030, meaning the Bundesliga side are under no immediate pressure to sell.

However, their previous €65 million valuation reportedly proved too expensive for interested clubs, and the latest €40 million figure could make a deal considerably more realistic.

It is important to note that this valuation has not been universally confirmed by German media, with some local reporting questioning whether Stuttgart have established a fixed asking price.

Nevertheless, Sky Germany’s latest report suggests there could be an opportunity for interested clubs to reopen discussions in January.

Competition For Newcastle

Newcastle are unlikely to have a straightforward route to signing the midfielder.

Galatasaray remain interested in El Khannouss, having previously explored a potential transfer during the summer.

The Turkish giants are understood to be monitoring his situation ahead of January, meaning Newcastle could face competition if Stuttgart genuinely become prepared to sanction his departure.

The player’s preference will also be an important factor in determining his next move.

Could El Khannouss Be The Missing Piece For Jaissle?

For Newcastle, a potential €40 million investment could represent an interesting opportunity.

At just 22, El Khannouss has considerable room for development and possesses the technical qualities to become an influential player in the Premier League.

His ability to receive possession between the lines, carry the ball forward and create opportunities could be particularly valuable in Jaissle’s preferred aggressive, vertical attacking system.

Newcastle have previously demonstrated their willingness to invest heavily in players they believe can improve the squad, but January recruitment will need to be carefully considered.

The opportunity to revisit a summer target at a substantially reduced reported valuation will certainly attract attention.

Nothing has been confirmed regarding a renewed Newcastle approach, and Stuttgart’s willingness to accept €40 million remains a reported position rather than an agreed transfer fee.

However, with January approaching, Bilal El Khannouss is once again a name Newcastle supporters should keep firmly on their radar.