Report: Stuttgart close in on Moroccan midfield star Bilal El Khannouss

The move comes as Stuttgart act swiftly to reinforce their squad following confirmation that striker Deniz Undav faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. While Undav's absence has created a gap in attack, the club sees El Khannouss as a creative solution to bolster their offensive options.

Tavolieri reports that the 20-year-old playmaker is already en route to Germany, where he is expected to undergo a medical before putting pen to paper on a four-year contract. 

His current market value stands at around €28 million, underlining the scale of Stuttgart's ambition this season.

El Khannouss, a highly-rated Moroccan international, has attracted strong interest from several Bundesliga sides during the summer transfer window. However, Stuttgart appear to have made the decisive move to win the race for his signature.

The club's financial flexibility has been boosted by the sale of Nick Woltemade to Newcastle United earlier this month, giving Stuttgart the resources to invest heavily in attacking reinforcements.

If completed, the signing of El Khannouss would represent a major statement of intent from Stuttgart, who are looking to build on last season's impressive campaign and establish themselves as a consistent force in German football.