There’s little argument against this season’s relegated teams of Southampton, Leicester and Ipswich being three of the worst-performing teams to ever come up to the Premier League.

However, history has shown us that even within such poor-performing teams, true hidden gems and world-class talent can be found.

Liverpool have done it expertly with the likes of Andy Robertson (Hull) and Georginio Wijnaldum (Newcastle), whilst we have picked up Nick Pope (Burnley), Harvey Barnes (Leicester), and Tino Livramento (Southampton) and Will Osula (Sheffield United) since the takeover in 2021.

And now, according to a new report, we could be eyeing up another recently-relegated talent who has caught the eye for Leicester in an otherwise awful season for the Foxes…

Newcastle linked with Leicester talent

Newcastle United have been linked with a move for Leicester City’s versatile attacker Bilal El Khannous.

The Moroccan midfielder has certainly stood out in this misfiring Leicester side, having moved from Belgian side Genk last summer.

CaughtOffside claim that Newcastle are monitoring the 21-year-old along with Aston Villa, Fulham and Wolves, suggesting an immediate return to Premier League level could be on the cards.

Even with just two goals and five assists for the Foxes, his technical ability has stood out in Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s side, along with his ability to play as an attacking midfielder or down the left wing.

£22m deal on offer?

According to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, El Khannous will be available for £22m this summer; just £1m more than the Foxes paid for him last summer.

Having bought the Belgian-born attacker for £21m from Genk, this may be deemed a bargain fee for a versatile playmaker with his potential.

Posting on X, Tavolieri stated: “Following Leicester City’s relegation to the Championship, club’s management will demand €26m (£22m) to let go their Moroccan talent during the upcoming transfer window.”

With Leicester widely expected to be subject to an FFP punishment upon their return to the second tier, and Eddie Howe’s comments last week that we might finally take advantage of other club’s need to sell their star players, could El Khannous be one to watch?

Our link with the Moroccan could carry some truth given our fondness for a relegated gem, but could equally be an agent-driven link in a bid to drive up interest. Time will tell!