adminEverton have reportedly joined the race to sign Stuttgart attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, with the Toffees considering a move for the Morocco international before the transfer window closes.
According to Sky Germany, Everton are not the only Premier League club keeping tabs on the 22-year-old, with Newcastle United also monitoring his situation. El Khannouss is reportedly open to leaving Stuttgart this summer, although the German club’s valuation could prove to be a major stumbling block.
Everton could benefit from El Khannouss’ creativity
Stuttgart are believed to be demanding a fee in the region of £43 million to £51 million for El Khannouss, leaving Everton with a significant financial decision to make if they want to secure his services.
The versatile attacker can play centrally as an attacking midfielder or operate from either flank, giving him the ability to create chances as well as contribute goals. Everton are in need of greater creativity in the final third, making their reported interest in El Khannouss understandable.
The Moroccan already has experience of English football following his spell with Leicester City, while his performances in Germany have further enhanced his reputation. Last season, the 22-year-old registered nine goals and seven assists across all competitions for Stuttgart.
His ability to unlock defences and contribute in front of goal could make him an attractive addition to Everton’s squad as they look to strengthen their attacking options.
A return to the Premier League could also appeal to El Khannouss. Moving back to England would represent another important step in his development, particularly if Everton can convince him that he would play a key role in their plans.
The Toffees are attempting to build a stronger squad capable of challenging for European football, and El Khannouss could provide an important attacking dimension. However, with Stuttgart demanding a substantial fee, negotiations could be crucial in determining whether the deal progresses.
Everton still need more firepower
While adding creativity would strengthen Everton, they also need to address their lack of consistent goals.
The Toffees have been linked with several attacking targets in recent weeks, and securing a reliable striker should remain high on their priority list. Adding a forward capable of regularly finding the net would give Everton another dimension in the final third.
It remains to be seen which targets they ultimately pursue before the transfer window shuts, but El Khannouss is certainly an intriguing name to have emerged on their radar.
Newcastle, meanwhile, could also benefit from additional attacking depth following the departures of key players. That could make El Khannouss an appealing option for Eddie Howe’s side as well.
With both Premier League clubs reportedly interested, the Stuttgart star could have a major decision to make in the coming days.
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