Crystal Palace Lining Up Eberechi Eze Replacement As Star Set To Leave For One North London Club

Crystal Palace are braced for big bids for Eberechi Eze – and have already identified a potential replacement.

The talented England international has a number of suitors this transfer window with both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur hot on his tail as they seek reinforcements.

We told you how Spurs were desperate to land the 27-year-old as they looked to gazump their rivals for the playmaker.

The Gunners have been long-term admirers of the player but are holding off on officially making an offer for the £68million-rated star as they need to ship out fringe players first.

Bilal El Khannouss has been identified by Palace as Eze replacement

Eze’s release clause expires this Friday and any fee beyond that would likely see the price tag increase significantly, so a move could be in the offing this week.

And if Palace do lose their talisman, manager Oliver Glasner already has a replacement in mind who he feels could do a job for the Eagles in England’s top flight and the Conference League.

According to Ed Aarons with the Guardian, Palace have identified Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss as an option they wish to explore should Eze leave.

The creative Moroccan is drawing serious interest from several EPL sides with Newcastle United also reportedly keen to make a deal happen.

What Marti Cifuentes said about interest in El Khannouss

It is information not lost on new Foxes boss Marti Cifuentes who acknowledges the club have a fight on their hands to keep hold of El Khannouss.

“We always have these conversations and always as a manager you have some players you might think are more important for the way you want to play,” Cifuentes explained.

“But as well you have to understand there is the reality in terms of the value that the market gives to certain players. But we do have these kinds of conversations.

“All good players will attract interest. It’s not just about Bilal, who is an excellent player. He did very well providing the two assists.

“But the process will always be the same. If someone leaves, it is my job to try to see how we can use the strengths and the quality in the squad. If I think we need something, I will look into the academy to see if we can find a player who can do this role. If not, then we go to the market.”

Why El Khanouss is in such high transfer demand at Leicester City

The attacking playmaker notched three goals and provided six assists in the Premier League last season despite his side’s relegation to the Championship.

And it is believed the 21-year-old wants to remain in the top flight.

El Khannouss chipped in with two assists for Leicester in their opening weekend last week as they beat Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 at the King Power Stadium.