VfB Stuttgart are preparing to activate the buyout clause for Bilal El Khannouss after the Moroccan midfielder’s strong start in Germany. The 21-year-old joined on loan from Leicester City in August 2025, and Stuttgart now plan to make the move permanent by triggering the €18.5 million option, according to BILD (via The72). Leicester received €3.5 million for the loan, with the full package potentially reaching €28 million through performance bonuses.
El Khannouss has recorded two goals in four Bundesliga matches, earning a 7.69 average rating. Across all competitions, he has contributed three goals and two assists in nine appearances. His form has convinced Stuttgart officials that the investment will prove worthwhile.
El Khannouss produced a decisive moment in Stuttgart’s 1-0 win over Heidenheim on October 4, 2025. He collected the ball outside the box, moved past two defenders, and bent a low shot into the far corner. The goal helped Stuttgart reach fourth place in the Bundesliga standings.
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German media have drawn comparisons to Arjen Robben, noting El Khannouss’s tendency to cut inside from wide areas before shooting. Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeneß acknowledged the player’s abilities but highlighted room for growth. “He is capable with both feet and has already enhanced his goal-scoring ability,” Hoeneß said. The coach noted that El Khannouss “at times takes excessive risks, while at other times can be too passive.”
Leicester’s financial troubles accelerated departure
Leicester signed El Khannouss from Genk for £19 million in August 2024 on a four-year deal. He appeared in 31 Premier League matches during the 2024-25 season, scoring twice and providing three assists. Leicester suffered relegation to the Championship in April 2025, their second drop in three years.
The club now faces a hearing over Profit and Sustainability Rules violations in the coming weeks, with a verdict expected later this season. Leicester could receive a points deduction based on the findings. The financial pressure created conditions for El Khannouss’s departure.
Stuttgart’s development model supports transfer decision
Stuttgart’s willingness to complete the transfer reflects coach Hoeneß’s record of developing young players. The club signed Nick Woltemade on a free transfer from Werder Bremen in 2024 and sold him to Newcastle United for up to €85 million. Jamie Leweling and Angelo Stiller have earned German national team selection under Hoeneß.
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El Khannouss has earned 22 caps for Morocco and won bronze at the Paris Olympics. His market value stands at €30 million, indicating Stuttgart could secure favourable terms. Leicester have filled the void left by El Khannouss and retired striker Jamie Vardy through internal options and summer additions.
Stephy Mavididi and Abdul Fatawu have increased their attacking output, while Jordan James has scored twice in five Championship matches. Leicester added James and Aaron Ramsey to strengthen central midfield during the transfer window.
