VfB Stuttgart has drastically reduced its asking price for Bilal El Khannouss, signaling a potential exit for the Morocco international as early as the January transfer window. According to Sky Germany, the club’s valuation for the 22-year-old has dropped from an initial €65 million to €40 million, including performance-based bonuses. This significant price correction follows a failed attempt to secure a higher fee last summer, when the club made the move from Leicester City permanent for €15 million but held firm on a premium price tag that deterred suitors.
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The revised fee has immediately reignited interest from top-tier European clubs and wealthy Saudi competitors. Reports indicate that Newcastle United and Galatasaray remain active in the pursuit, with the Turkish giants specifically highlighted by Sky as being keen to finalize a deal in the upcoming winter window. Al Ittihad also showed interest previously, but the previous €65 million barrier proved prohibitive for all parties. By lowering the threshold to €40 million, Stuttgart is aligning El Khannouss’s market value with current transfer trends, making him a viable target for clubs looking to bolster their attacking options without breaking the bank.
El Khannouss, who signed a long-term contract with Stuttgart running until 2030, represents a high-value asset for the Bundesliga side, yet the club appears willing to test the market. The strategic move suggests Stuttgart may be prioritizing squad rotation or financial flexibility over retaining the midfielder, who has yet to fully cement his starting role. For Newcastle and Galatasaray, the reduced fee presents a critical opportunity to secure a young, versatile attacker before the window closes, potentially shifting the balance of power in their respective leagues.
Source: Yahoo Sports
