Watch out Martin Odegaard, expert reveals how ‘relentless’ Arsenal transfer target could ‘dislodge’ club captain

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There are already plenty of names being linked to Arsenal ahead of the summer transfer window.

Arsenal failed in the January transfer window, leaving Mikel Arteta low on depth, with pressures not eased by the Gunners’ injury list.

Fortunately, change is happening in N5 as Andrea Berta prepares to become sporting director.

The Italian will bring with him an inspired reputation in European football, with Berta signing some top forwards during his time at Atletico Madrid.

Arteta wanted to sign a forward in January however, his plea was not met, adding emphasis to the summer window.

Several names have already been linked with a move to the Emirates, with the latest being a budding Premier League talent.

Bilal El Khannouss is wanted by Arsenal, according to reports, which claim the Leicester City midfielder could leave the Foxes if they are relegated. 

Amid speculation linking the Moroccan to the Gunners, Arsenal Insider got the lowdown on the player by speaking to senior journalist Callum Boyle of Leicester City News.

What’s the consensus of El Khannouss’ time in the Premier League so far?

“For a young player coming into a club that was always going to struggle, he’s been very impressive.

“El Khannouss struggled in his first two games but since then has gotten better and better each week and is probably the second name on the teamsheet behind Mads Hermansen right now.”

What are his greatest strengths?

“Like most modern footballers, El Khannouss’ best work comes when he has the ball with his feet.

“He travels at a fast pace when in possession and is able to jink past defenders with a real swagger. Passing is also a huge strong point, especially in the final third.” 

What does he need to work on?

“El Khannouss has got goals and assists but you would expect him to provide a lot more in terms of contributions at Arsenal.

“His work rate is relentless and he won’t stop, nor will he give up, but adding to his goal tally would propel him to the next level.”

Looking at Arsenal, could El Khannouss’ profile help Mikel Arteta’s attack?

“Absolutely. As I alluded to earlier, El Khannouss can unleash a killer ball in the final third and if Arsenal go and sign a striker in the summer, they would relish latching onto passes which sometimes look like they haven’t been successful due to Leicester’s lack of quality.”

Do you think El Khannouss could fit in at Arsenal and could he rival any players?

“Mikel Arteta will relish his hunger to be on the ball all of the time.

“Martin Odegaard has been pretty quiet at stages this season and El Khannouss is a confident player. He will believe he can dislodge the Arsenal captain and get into the starting XI. It might take a while but never say never.

“He’s also capable of playing on the wing and could be an option on the left if Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard are out of form.”

If you could compare El Khannouss to another Premier League player, who would you choose?

“I would say he is a hybrid of Odegaard/Bernardo Silva. He loves being on the ball and dictating the play but isn’t afraid to do the dirty work. Something players of his mould aren’t always willing to do.”

Having seen El Khannouss’ Premier League journey, how much potential does he have beyond his first season? 

“The sky is the limit for this kid. Not only is he impressing at club level, he’s now playing regularly for Morocco at a time where they are having a bit of a golden era.

“Next season he’ll have had a full Premier League campaign under his belt and will be so much better from a physical, technical and football IQ perspective.”

What’s the feeling at Leicester when it comes to El Khannouss?

“There’s not been much to smile about at Leicester this season, believe me, but El Khannouss is a rare positive.

“He’s the sort of player that makes you get on the edge of your seat, just in case he does something magic.

“Given that it’s likely to be Championship football next season, everyone is anticipating his departure but he would go with the blessing of everyone, as frankly, he’s one of the few that has tried and deserves to stay in the Premier League.”