Manchester United join Liverpool and Arsenal in tracking Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi amid AC Milan interest
Manchester United’s journey has always been full of emotion and upheaval. The departure of Erik ten Hag in October 2024 and the subsequent appointment of Ruben Amorim opened a new chapter for the club. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s partial stake led to changes in the backroom staff, further shaping the club’s direction. United are currently 11th in the Premier League table with one win, one draw and one loss from three matches.
Playing in the Europa League has reduced broadcast revenue and cash reserves, slightly increasing debt. Meanwhile, André Onana went on loan to Turkey’s Trabzonspor, and Altay Bayindir will handle goalkeeping duties in the Manchester derby. In the same vein, reports reveal that Manchester United have entered the race for Dayot Upamecano as Bayern contract talks stall, indicating the club are constantly trying to strengthen their defensive options as well.
A rising star in Europe
Meanwhile, far from United’s immediate struggles, Ayyoub Bouaddi is attracting attention from several clubs in Europe thanks to his talent and skill. The 17-year-old Lille midfielder has performed well in Ligue 1 and has also caught scouts’ attention with his maturity in the Champions League.
Manchester United are keeping tabs on Ayyoub Bouaddi
Manchester United are keeping tabs on Ayyoub Bouaddi
According to reports from TEAMtalk, AC Milan are leading the race for the teenager. The Serie A club believe they can lure him to San Siro. However, Premier League clubs are offering stiff competition. Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool have already sent scouts to monitor his progress. The concern for them is that AC Milan could try to tempt the Frenchman even before the January transfer window opens. The report adds that clubs will keep tabs on his development throughout the season. Amid this scramble, speculation remains high over who will ultimately win the battle for his signature.
United’s vision for the future
United’s interest in Bouaddi shows that Amorim is serious about developing young talent and building a foundation for the future. Bouaddi can carry the ball, is adept at dribbling and tackling, and keeps his composure even against higher-level teams. However, the 17-year-old needs to refine his pass selection and concentration to appear more mature under pressure.
If he joins United, Amorim would probably give him a forward role initially rather than a deep midfield position. Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system has two attacking midfield slots, and Bouaddi’s dribbling and ball-carrying could give the team an edge. This way, he would not have to shoulder heavy defensive responsibility in the early stages and could develop more comfortably.
Alongside this, another report suggests Saudi clubs could return for Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes in 2026, which implies the club may face further midfield challenges in future. This journey has not been easy for United, but the club’s history has often shown that difficult times lay the foundation for future strength. Under Ruben Amorim’s leadership, with new signings and a focus on youth, Manchester United expect to be back at the top in the coming years.