Newcastle United transfer news: Magpies hold 'strong interest' in Championship playmaker

Newcastle United are reportedly giving consideration to trying to sign a Championship playmaker.

While the Magpies are closing in on the acquisition of AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw, head coach Eddie Howe is in desperate need of attacking reinforcements.

More specifically, a replacement may be required for Alexander Isak who is known to be pushing for a transfer to Liverpool.

Nevertheless, regardless of whether Isak stays or remains at St James' Park, Newcastle are still in need of at least one more player who can play in a variety of offensive positions.

According to The Telegraph, someone of that profile that has been identified is Leicester City's Bilal El Khannous.

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Newcastle considering surprise El Khannous offer

The report suggests that Newcastle are open to trying to activate a release clause that is present in the 21-year-old's contract.

A different report has indicated that the fee in question could be £24.5m, a figure that will be deemed attainable.

El Khannous was instrumental in Leicester's comeback 2-1 victory over Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday, providing both assists in that contest.

However, despite only chipping in with two goals and three assists from 32 appearances in the Premier League in 2024-25, he is deemed to be a top talent by other clubs in the division.

Although Leicester could benefit from the Morocco international remaining at the King Power Stadium, cashing in on his services would significantly bolster their position with the EFL financial regulations.

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Would El Khannous get game time at Newcastle?

As it stands, there are just eight players viewed as options for Newcastle in the final third, including Isak who could be leaving and William Osula who is lacking senior experience for the club.

El Khannous would be viewed as someone who can challenge Anthony Gordon, Anthony Elanga, Jacob Murphy and Harvey Barnes for a role on the flank.

He can also play as a number 10, although Howe generally plays three central midfielder as opposed to one of the trio being overly more attack-minded than the other two.

Despite that, El Khannous would be a regular contributor, even if many of his outings may come from the substitutes' bench.