Meknes – VfB Stuttgart may have to part ways with one of their top stars during the current transfer window, balancing squad continuity for their upcoming Champions League campaign against pressing financial needs.
German publication ZVW reports that Stuttgart must end the transfer window with a financial surplus. The funds will serve a dual purpose: expanding the transfer budget for new signings and supporting major capital investments in club facilities.
While Stuttgart reported record revenues for the 2025 financial year, those funds fall short of covering upcoming expansion plans.
Key developments, including renovating or rebuilding the administrative headquarters and acquiring the Carl Benz Center, mean the club must rely on player sales for a significant cash injection.
ZVW’s report indicates that the Moroccan playmaker has emerged as the club’s top candidate to raise funds.
“Bilal El Khannouss is one of the main candidates for sale should a suitable offer be received by VfB Stuttgart,” ZVW wrote on Tuesday.
El Khannouss completed a permanent transfer to VfB Stuttgart last spring for around €18, following a successful season-long loan spell from Leicester City.
The 22-year-old Moroccan international signed a contract through June 2028 with the German side after impressing in the Bundesliga and establishing himself as a core creative player.
Stuttgart are reportedly seeking a fee between €40 million and €50 million to part ways with El Khannouss. A sale in that range would give the German club substantial financial flexibility to fund new signings and drive forward their long-term infrastructure projects.
During the 2025-26 season, El Khannouss made 25 Bundesliga appearances for Stuttgart, including 19 as a starter. And he recorded four goals and five assists throughout the season.
The potential departure also comes amid growing frustration from the player’s side. ZVW reports that the attacking midfielder is unhappy in Stuttgart due to his reduced playing time in the second half of the season, further fueling talk of a summer exit.
For now, Stuttgart have yet to receive a formal offer for El Khannouss. However, with growing European interest following his strong 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, the German club remains ready to capitalize on a lucrative deal before the transfer window closes.
