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<p>Signed for up to €25m</p>
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<img alt="Bilal El Khannouss: Leicester bust could become next Woltemade in Stuttgart" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/el-khannouss-stuttgart-1759731392-179559.png" title="Bilal El Khannouss: Leicester bust could become next Woltemade in Stuttgart"></img>
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<p>Bilal El Khannouss showcased an impressive display of talent during the match. The Moroccan forward received the ball outside the penalty area, paused to assess the situation, and, despite being closely marked by four Heidenheim defenders, unleashed a precise shot that left goalkeeper Diant Ramaj with no chance. "He demonstrated his capabilities," praised Stuttgart head coach Sebastian Hoeneß after the match regarding the 21-year-old national player.</p>
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<p>El Khannouss joined Stuttgart on loan this summer from Leicester, with a conditional obligation to buy. Since arriving, he has made a significant impact, contributing three goals and two assists in nine appearances across competitions. If Stuttgart exercises their purchase option, they will be committed to paying €25m, including add-ons. However, should El Khannouss continue his promising development, the club will gladly fulfill this financial obligation.</p>
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<p>Head coach Hoeneß has earned a reputation in Germany for nurturing talent and transforming players into top performers. A prime example is Nick Woltemade, who was signed on a free transfer from Werder Bremen in summer 2024 and subsequently sold to Newcastle United for up to €85m. Hoeneß has also developed players like Chris Führich, Deniz Undav, Maximilian Mittelstädt, Jamie Leweling, and Angelo Stiller into German national team contenders.</p>
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<p>Player Comparison</p>
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<p>VfB Stuttgart</p>
<p>Newcastle United</p>
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<p>€28.00m</p>
<p>Market Value</p>
<p>€30.00m</p>
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<p>Attacking Midfield</p>
<p>Position</p>
<p>Centre-Forward</p>
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<p>30/06/2026</p>
<p>Contract until</p>
<p>01/07/2031</p>
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<p><span>Full Player Comparison</span></p>
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<h2>El Khannouss at VfB Stuttgart – Hoeneß enhances player development</h2>
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<p>Notable talents like Serhou Guirassy, Waldemar Anton (both played for Dortmund), Hiroki Ito (now with Bayern Munich), and Enzo Millot (at Al-Ahli) were brought to VfB Stuttgart for minimal fees and later transferred for significant profits. Even if Stuttgart is required to pay the full €25m for El Khannouss, they believe the investment is worthwhile. “He is two-footed and has significantly improved his scoring ability since joining us,” said Hoeneß. “At just 21, he possesses immense potential.”</p>
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<p>What areas does El Khannouss need to focus on to reach elite status? “He must work on consistency,” Hoeneß commented. “He sometimes takes excessive risks, while at other times, he holds back. He needs to be more direct and should avoid unnecessary dribbles or passes. Finding the right balance is crucial. We also want him to enhance his efficiency in the final third, where goals are scored. The goal today was a perfect example of what he should aim to improve.” During his time in Belgium, El Khannouss consistently demonstrated high potential, and now, under Hoeneß's guidance, he has the opportunity to maximize that potential.</p>
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