It was revealed on Tuesday morning that Alexander Isak has no plans to feature for the Magpies again, even if the transfer window shuts without him being sold.
This appears to be a saga that could drag on indefinitely, potentially continuing beyond the 1 September transfer deadline.
For now, whether Isak stays or leaves, Eddie Howe is intent on strengthening his squad ahead of a Champions League return, so could a “quality” addition soon arrive in the North East?
Up to this point, Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale remain Newcastle’s only signings, though several more could soon follow.
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In fact, the club have made an approach for Porto’s Samu Aghehowa, and there are also claims that the Magpies are preparing a bid for Brentford’s unsettled striker, Yoane Wissa.
At the same time, might Newcastle secure a bargain by signing a rising star reminiscent of Hatem Ben Arfa?
According to John Percy of the Telegraph, Newcastle are ready to accelerate their push to sign Bilal El Khannouss from Leicester City.
It is reported that the Moroccan international has a release clause in his deal after the Foxes’ relegation to the EFL Championship, with the Magpies willing to offer up to £30m for his services.
El Khannouss played the full match in Leicester’s league opener against Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday, but seems set for a Premier League return, with Leeds and Tottenham also in the mix, meaning a move to Tyneside is possible.
Leicester endured a torrid campaign last season, winning only six league games, going nine consecutive home fixtures without scoring, and losing them all from 22 December to Easter Sunday – a new unwanted top-flight record.
Even so, El Khannouss stood out, netting three goals in his debut English season, including the decisive strike at Tottenham in January.
Consequently, analyst Ben Mattinson has labelled him “one of the best prospects in the world,” while scout Antonio Mango has praised him as a “genius.”
The 21-year-old’s calmness in possession and superb dribbling rank among his biggest assets, averaging 1.1 successful dribbles per match in the Premier League last term, per Sofascore. That certainly brings to mind ex-Newcastle star Ben Arfa, right?
Between 2010 and 2014, the Frenchman was known for his flair, close control and attacking brilliance, epitomised by his stunning solo goal against Bolton at St James’ Park in April 2012.
Now, let’s break down El Khannouss’ numbers alongside Leicester’s season to highlight the similarities.
As shown in the stats, within an otherwise poor Leicester outfit, El Khannouss was the standout creative spark, topping the charts for expected assists, big chances created, key passes, progressive passes and many more attacking metrics.
He possesses the same talisman-like qualities Ben Arfa had for much of his Newcastle career, often carrying the creative load and producing moments of magic on his own.
Therefore, in a stronger team, El Khannouss could flourish into one of the league’s brightest stars – and Newcastle might be the stage for him to do exactly that.
