Genk extend Premier League target Bilal El Khannouss until 2027 as player doesn’t want to ‘skip steps’ | OneFootball

Genk have announced that Moroccan international Bilal El Khannouss has signed a new contract which will run until 2027. The 18-year-old only made his debut for the club at the end of the 2021/2022 season, yet his performances this season has seen him linked with a number of high profile European clubs. His form also saw him get a call up to the Moroccan national team for the World Cup, which saw the Atlas Lions make history by becoming the first African nation to make a World Cup semi-final.

El Khannouss has played 25 times in all competitions for Genk, providing three assists. While his assist numbers may not be outstanding, he has been involved in helping Genk become the most potent attacking side in the Belgian Pro League. Under Wouter Vrancken the side have scored an impressive 60 goals in 24 matches this season.

Speaking on his new contract, the Moroccan teenager said: “The club has a lot of confidence in me and that is what I need at the moment. I have often seen other young boys skip steps in their careers. I definitely want to avoid that. With this new contract in my pocket, I can focus 100% on football with KRC Genk. I want to win prizes here with the team and I hope to be able to leave through the big gate one day”.

At the weekend Genk ran out 3-2 winners over Gent as winter signing Tolu Arokodare got his first goal for the club. Arokodare joined on deadline day to replace departing top scorer Paul Onuachu.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson