Paris Saint-Germain are considered to be the frontrunners to sign Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.
The 18-year-old is emerging as one of the top young defensive midfield talents in the world and his ability hasn't gone unnoticed by PSG or many of their top European rivals.
According to GMS sources, Bayern Munich and Newcastle United are among the clubs keeping tabs on the talented teenager but neither have made an approach.
PSG Hold 'Concrete' Interest in Bouaddi
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Lille vs PSG
As Bouaddi's reputation grows, PSG are one club who hold a genuine, strong interest in signing the France Under-21 international in 2026.
GMS sources have revealed that the Ligue 1 giants are expected to ramp up talks in December with a view to bringing in Bouaddi, as they explore different conditions of a potential deal with their French top flight rivals.
One option that PSG are open to is a deal that would see the midfielder loaned back to Lille until the summer, when the 18-year-old would move to Parc des Princes on a permanent basis.
Despite wide-ranging interest across Europe, it is PSG who are considered the favourites to win the race for Bouaddi's signature.
Why Does Everyone Want Bouaddi?
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Lille vs Borussia Dortmund
Despite only turning 18 years of age in October, Bouaddi has already built up a huge amount of experience with Lille.
The youngster has already made 72 appearances for the French club's first team, including nine at the highest level in the Champions League.
The teenager plays well beyond his years and, stylistically, his clear strengths are as a defensive midfield enforcer, where he dominates when it comes to winning defensive duels.
His impressive passing stats hint that he could still develop into more of an all-round midfielder in the future, but the 18-year-old clearly has plenty of time on his side to learn and grow.
Arsenal and Chelsea are the latest Premier League clubs to be linked with Bouaddi's signature, but it is PSG who lead the way to land one of the most exciting young talents in European football.
The French club will hope they can agree a deal as quickly as possible for the sought-after wonderkid.