Stuttgart: German club Stuttgart announced the signing of Moroccan international Bilal El Khannous from Leicester City on loan, with an option to buy for $35 million next year. The 21-year-old midfielder will transition to the German Bundesliga just one year after joining Leicester City from Belgian club Genk for $27 million.

According to Qatar News Agency, El Khannous had been linked with several clubs during the summer transfer window, with Crystal Palace being a notable contender. However, Stuttgart managed to finalize the deal just before the transfer window closed, securing the player’s services for the upcoming season. The agreement includes an obligation for Stuttgart to purchase El Khannous next summer, marking Leicester City’s largest sale during this transfer window.

While Leicester will not receive the bulk of the transfer fee until the next financial cycle, the move represents a strategic step for Stuttgart in enhancing their squad. The acquisition of El Khannous is expected to bolster their midfield options as they compete in the Bundesliga.