“Not A Good Idea…” 28M Rated City Target Speaks Out On Potential Etihad Move As Scouts Watch Him In Action

“Not A Good Idea…” 28M Rated City Target Speaks Out On Potential Etihad Move As Scouts Watch Him In Action

Racing Genk attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss has dismissed talk that he could make a move to Manchester City,

The Citizens reportedly watched the teenager in action when Genk faced Club Brugge earlier this month and, when asked whether a switch to the Etihad would appeal to him, El Khannouss replied:

“I leave that to my brokers, they know what is good for me. Do I have a career plan? I think it is not a good idea for my progression to go directly to a top club. I’m 18 years old and making progress is the most important thing, but that can only be done by playing. And do you already see me going to Manchester City and knocking Kevin De Bruyne out of the team?”


Stepping into De Bruyne’s shoes would be a huge challenge for a seasoned professional, let alone a youngster who is still making his way in the game, so El Khannouss’s hesitancy is understandable.

Manchester United, West Ham, Ajax, Napoli, Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain have also been keeping a watchful eye on the 18-year-old, who has played 22 matches in all competitions for his club this season.

Reports earlier this month suggested that Genk may look to hold out for a national record transfer fee to sell El Khannouss. That means City would have to pay more than the €32m (£28m) that AC Milan paid Club Brugge for Charles de Ketelaere last year.