Liverpool and Arsenal Eye Lille Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi Amid Transfer Race
Premier League clubs Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly in a transfer battle to sign 18-year-old Moroccan international midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille. Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring the player, whose profile has risen following an impressive display at the World Cup. Bouaddi's contract with Lille extends until 2029, and a transfer fee is expected to be at least £60 million, a figure that could increase with continued strong performances.
Ayyoub Bouaddi, an 18-year-old midfielder for Lille and a Morocco international, has become a focus for several top European clubs. Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly monitoring the young talent.
According to talkSPORT, Arsenal is currently in talks to sign Bouaddi, while Liverpool has also held discussions. Bouaddi's value has reportedly accelerated following an eye-catching performance during the World Cup, particularly in a 1-1 draw against Brazil, which marked only his fourth senior international cap.
Prior to his World Cup display, Bouaddi had already made 42 appearances for Lille last season. He contributed to the club's third-place finish in Ligue 1 and their journey to the last 16 of the Europa League.
Bouaddi, who was born in France and represented the country up to under-21 level before switching to Morocco, made his senior debut for Morocco against Burundi last month. He is expected to feature in Morocco's upcoming World Cup matches against Scotland and Haiti on June 24.
His current contract with Lille runs until 2029, a factor that strengthens the French club's negotiating position. Any potential transfer for Bouaddi is anticipated to cost at least £60 million, a fee that may rise further should his World Cup performances continue to impress. Lille is not under pressure to sell the player.
(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)
