Ayyoub Bouaddi is thought to be the subject of interest from Liverpoolplaceholder image
Ayyoub Bouaddi is thought to be the subject of interest from Liverpool | Getty Images
Liverpool are interested in one of Europe’s brightest Under-21 prospects
Liverpool are in the process of a new and exciting French revolution with marquee summer signing Hugo Ekitike being at the forefront.
The 23-year-old striker, who was heavily linked with a move to the North East, tore Newcastle United’s defence to shreds in his last outing to take his tally to 10 in the Premier League and 15 across all competitions - and based on his current form few would bet against him getting 25+ goals before the season ends.
Liverpool plot move for Ayyoub Bouaddi
Premier League holders Liverpool have been linked with an exciting move for France Under-21 international Ayyoub Bouaddi.
The 18-year-old is a central defensive midfielder that’s attracting the attention of Europe’s elite after a series of stellar displays for Lille in recent months.
Liverpool are in need of a player that can control the game in defensive midfield. They’ve shifted Ryan Gravenberch into a deeper role, but it’s worth noting that earlier in his career at Bayern Munich he preferred to play further forward.
Similarly they have quality Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz further forward, but the trio all prefer to focus on unlocking opposition defences, despite occasionally stepping back when being asked to do a certain job.
Anfield Watch claims Liverpool are huge admirers of Bouaddi due to his ability to win battles in midfield and protect his defence efficiently.
Why Bouaddi could be Liverpool’s next Fabinho
Liverpool are likely to be in the market for a defensive midfielder as they weigh up potentially selling one or both of Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo.
Neither player left in January despite speculation. This was due to Arne Slot’s desire for squad depth, but both are likely to be the subject of summer interest and could seek moves amid a lack of gametime.
Bouaddi has the qualities to step into the Liverpool team and replace them. He could even prove to be a generational talent.
He’s already made 81 appearances for Lille since turning professional, including 27 this season, with 23 of those appearances being starts.
He’s got an overall record of just four assists without yet scoring, but boasts excellent underlying stats, averaging the most defensive actions of any Under-21 footballer this season throughout Europe’s top five leagues.
Bouaddi has won eight caps for France at Under-21 level, and it seems to be only a matter of time before he competes for a place in the senior team based on his current trajectory.
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