FC Basel attacker Mohamed Elyounoussi scored 13 goals in 44 appearances for his team last season. Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images

Leicester are planning a move for Basel star Mohamed Elyounoussi after seeing competition from Bayer Leverkusen, sources have told ESPN FC.

Leicester have held a long-term interest in Elyounoussi having watched him on several occasions last season and view him as an ideal replacement for Manchester City target Riyad Mahrez.

The 23-year-old Moroccan-born Norway international has earned a reputation as one of the best young attacking players in Europe after impressing for club and country during the last 12 months.

Elyounoussi scored 13 goals and provided 17 assists in 44 appearances for Basel last season, including a goal and a man-of-the match performance during Basel's shock 2-1 win over Manchester City in the Champions League in March.

A number of clubs have been tracking Elyounoussi's progress, including Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen as they look to bolster their attacking options for next season.

Leicester have already signed three new faces in James Maddison, Ricardo Pereira and Jonny Evans this summer and they see Elyounoussi, who can play out wide or up front, as another useful addition to the team.

Basel are aware of the mounting interest in Elyounoussi and are bracing themselves for offers during this summer's transfer window.