Sunderland are “close to signing” West Ham transfer target Bilal El Khannouss, according to reports in France.

L’Equipe claims that the Black Cats have advanced negotiations in recent days and have a “head start” over other teams who have registered an interest in the 21-Cap Moroccan international.

The Hammers and Monaco are said to have made “enquiries” about El Khannouss as well, with the player keen on leaving Leicester City after their relegation to the Championship.

Although they are not mentioned in L’Equipe’s article, Arsenal have also been credited with an interest. AfricaFoot reported back in June that the Gunners had agreed personal terms with the 21-year-old.

Will West Ham step up their interest in El Khannouss?

With Sunderland said to be making progress in their attempts to snap up the midfielder, Irons head of recruitment Kyle Macaulay may not have much time to lose if he wants to steal a march on their Premier League rivals.

However, El Khannouss may not necessarily be the London club’s top target as they seek to strengthen their options in midfield.

Elliott and McAtee are also under consideration

Several sources have confirmed that Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott is a player that Macaulay and head coach Graham Potter want to bring in. Manchester City’s James McAtee is also said to be on their radar.

Their valuations could prove to be problematic, though, with reports suggesting that they may only be sold by their respective teams for £40m.

Leicester are unlikely to demand that much for El Khannouss, and for that reason, you cannot rule out West Ham switching targets and focusing their efforts on securing the Moroccan’s signature instead. Of course, a lot may depend on whether the player gives the green light to Sunderland.

In other news, West Ham may have to agree to a “buyback clause” if they want to sign a playmaker for £40m