Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has “made contact” with the representatives of Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to RMC Sport reporter Fabrice Hawkins.
The journalist is known for breaking transfer news, and he claims that the Gunners are “ready” to make an offer in the region of €45m (£39m) for the teenager during the January transfer window.
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However, the Gunners are by no means the only team willing to make a move for Bouaddi next month.
Hawkins claims Chelsea are prepared to match the offer from their London rivals, while Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United are also keeping closes tabs on his situation.
Paris Saint-Germain are said to be “attentive” as well, but the European champions are not expected to be one of the front-runners for his signature, with any proposal contingent on potential departures next year.
What do fans need to know about Bouaddi?
The France Under 21 international only turned 18 in October but he has impressed with his performances since breaking into Lille’s first team.
Bouaddi is usually deployed as a no.8, although he can play as a defensive midfielder if needed. Despite his young age, he has already made 72 appearances at senior level.
Arsenal may need to up their offer
Despite the Gunners’ willingness to pay almost £40m for the youngster, Hawkins reports that Lille are not going to let him go without a fight.
President Olivier Letang has just secured Bouaddi to a new long-term contract, keeping him with the Ligue One side until the summer of 2029.
It means a sale in January is extremely unlikely, with it being suggested that any bids next summer would need to exceed €50m (£44m) for a sale to be considered. For now, it appears Bouaddi is staying where he is.
Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here