Ayyoub Bouaddi
Arsenal are reportedly ‘leading’ the race to sign LOSC Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, as per TEAMtalk.
After starting his youth career at AFC Creil, the youngster joined Les Douges’ academy at the age of 13. Having ranked through the Ligue 1 side’s youth system, he made his first team debut in 2023 before establishing himself as a key starter.
This season, he has shown glimpses of his qualities, registering a solitary assist in 36 appearances across all competitions. Moreover, he has been helping his side to push for a European place finish in the French top-flight, sitting only two points behind third-placed Olympique de Marseille.
Although the 18-year-old has represented France at the youth level, Bouaddi has chosen to play for Morocco at the international level and is expected to be called up to the Atlas Lions squad for this summer’s World Cup.
Now, TEAMtalk claim that after being impressed by Bouaddi’s development, Arsenal have registered their interest in signing him. The Gunners hold a long-standing interest in the youngster and sent scouts to watch him in action against Marseille on Sunday, where he helped his side win the game 2-1.
Arsenal aren’t the only club interested in Bouaddi, as Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool have also been keeping a close eye on his performances before making a potential swoop.
Bouaddi to Arsenal
However, the North London club have already started laying the groundwork to finalise the operation; as a result, they are currently ‘leading the chase’.
After recently tying him down to a fresh term until 2029, Lille are in a strong position to demand a big fee if they are forced to cash-in on him this summer, and he is valued at around £35m by Transfermarkt.
Bouaddi is a 6ft 1in tall right-footed defensive midfielder, but is also efficient in the box-to-box role. He is quick across the ground, technically sound, good in the air, and efficient in defensive contributions.
With Christian Norgaard struggling to find regular game time this season, signing a new midfielder to support Martin Zubimendi would be the right decision.
Bouaddi might be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal with a view to the long-term future should they eventually manage to secure his service during the offseason.