Newcastle United have once again been linked with one of Europe’s most exciting young midfield talents, after Bilal El Khannouss openly confirmed that the Magpies were among the Premier League clubs showing serious interest in him.
The highly rated Moroccan international has lifted the lid on discussions that took place during the last transfer window, revealing that Newcastle were not just casual admirers but were involved in talks that reached an advanced stage.
El Khannouss has enjoyed an impressive season in the Bundesliga, where his performances have continued to underline why so many clubs across Europe are tracking his progress.
Still only in the early stages of his career, the attacking midfielder has already delivered six goal contributions in the league this season, showcasing his creativity, intelligence on the ball, and ability to influence games from central areas. His current valuation sits at around £25 million, a figure that reflects both his potential and his growing impact at senior level.
Speaking candidly about his future, El Khannouss admitted that moving to the Premier League was his main ambition during the last transfer window. He explained that he held talks with several English clubs and that discussions with some of them progressed far beyond the early stages.
Among those clubs, he specifically mentioned Crystal Palace and Newcastle United as the most serious options, with Newcastle very much in the conversation at the time.
What surprised the midfielder most was how the situation unfolded, especially given the presence of a release clause in his contract. Despite that clause being in place, no club ultimately decided to activate it.
From his perspective, this was difficult to understand, particularly after negotiations had advanced and his desire to test himself in England was clear. In the end, a move to Stuttgart materialised instead, offering him a fresh start and a chance to continue developing in a competitive environment.
El Khannouss also acknowledged that the summer period was far from straightforward for him. Leaving Leicester proved challenging, with the club not making the process easy.
While the outcome may not have been his first choice, he has remained professional and focused, settling into his new surroundings and continuing to perform at a high level. His attitude suggests a player with maturity beyond his years, someone determined to make the most of every opportunity.
From a Newcastle perspective, the interest in El Khannouss makes perfect sense. Eddie Howe’s side have often been criticised this season for a lack of creativity in the final third, particularly against teams that defend deep.
While Newcastle do not traditionally operate with a classic number ten under Howe, there is a growing feeling that an inventive player between the lines could add a new dimension to the team’s attacking play. El Khannouss, with his vision and technical quality, fits that profile well.
That said, a move now appears unlikely in the short term. Stuttgart are believed to be in a strong position to secure him on a permanent basis, with certain performance-related conditions expected to be met.
If those clauses are triggered, Newcastle may find the door closed, at least for now. Even so, his name is unlikely to disappear from the club’s long-term scouting list, especially if creative midfield reinforcements become a priority again.
Newcastle’s transfer strategy going forward will be shaped heavily by careful planning rather than impulsive spending. Sporting director Ross Wilson has already made it clear that the club will not repeat the level of summer investment during the winter window.
However, he has also stressed that funds are available if the right opportunity arises. According to Wilson, any January move must align with the club’s wider squad plan and long-term vision, rather than being a short-term fix.
Wilson has also emphasised the importance of working closely with Eddie Howe to identify genuine needs within the squad. Those discussions are ongoing, and while Newcastle are expected to be cautious, they will remain alert to market opportunities that could strengthen the team in the right way.
For El Khannouss, the Premier League dream has not disappeared. His comments make it clear that England remains his preferred destination, and with his talent and trajectory, another opportunity is likely to come. For Newcastle, his situation serves as a reminder that elite young players are aware of the project on Tyneside and see the club as a serious option. Even if this particular move does not happen, the connection itself speaks volumes about where Newcastle now stand in the footballing landscape.
