EXCLUSIVE: Man Utd join Liverpool in Bilal El Khannouss race

Steve Kay

• 26 Jan 2024 08:49 CST
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Manchester United and Liverpool have set their sights on Moroccan international Bilal El Khannouss, FootballTransfers has been told.

We understand that the Red Devils are set to revamp their transfer strategy by focusing on the recruitment of promising young talents rather than seasoned players, with the youngster now being targeted for this window.

Sources have informed us that Man Utd, under their new partial owner INEOS, aim to secure a solid foundation for the future, and one name emerging in their sights is the youthful attacker.

The 19-year-old midfielder, currently playing for Genk in Belgium, has become a highly sought-after name in European football, attracting attention from various clubs, including Premier League rivals Liverpool. Both scouting teams have been closely monitoring the teenager, believing he can grow into a key player.

El Khannouss' steep career trajectory

El Khannouss has already amassed an impressive 76 appearances for his Belgian club, contributing to 14 goals along the way. His standout performances have not only captured the attention of people at Old Trafford and Anfield but have also earned him a call-up to the Moroccan national squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, with the youngster having previously featured at the 2022 Qatar World Cup at just 18 years of age.

Known for his versatility on the field, El Khannouss primarily operates as an advanced playmaker but is equally adept in a No.8 role and as a winger. This flexibility is seen as a valuable asset, drawing comparisons to Christian Eriksen, the Danish international who has experienced occasional struggles in a United shirt this season.

Sources suggest that Genk are likely to demand a transfer fee ranging between €25 milllion and €30m for the young midfielder. Though it's thought that Man Utd are hamstrung by Financial Fair Play and won't make a move even for loans this window, it's our information that if they manage to offload one or two more players a deal could be done.