Bilal El Khannouss has ended weeks of speculation by committing to VfB Stuttgart, rejecting interest from multiple European and Saudi clubs. The Moroccan attacking midfielder confirmed his decision to BILD on Tuesday morning at Stuttgart’s training ground, hours before the transfer window closure.
“I will stay. The decision has already been made,” El Khannouss told the German outlet, signaling an end to the uncertainty surrounding his immediate future. Stuttgart’s management received formal notification of his resolve to remain at the Bundesliga club.
Rejected Suitors and Stuttgart’s Valuation
Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest, and multiple unnamed English sides had pursued the 24-year-old during the window. Saudi Arabia–based clubs also tabled proposals. Earlier in the transfer window, Galatasaray had emerged as a contender for his signature. None succeeded in swaying El Khannouss toward departure.
Stuttgart had set a clear financial boundary: any deal would require a minimum offer of €60 million. His contract position strengthened their hand considerably—the midfielder signed a long-term deal through June 2030 with no release clause embedded in his terms, effectively handing the club absolute control over negotiations.
Path to Permanence After Leicester Loan
El Khannouss joined Stuttgart on loan from Leicester City before being converted into a permanent signing. The transition has now been sealed by his own choice to reject lucrative alternatives. His renewed focus can now turn entirely toward delivering on the pitch for the German side, free from the distraction of constant transfer talk.
