Liverpool are keeping a close eye on a deal to sign highly-rated Lille sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi this summer, according to TEAMtalk.
The Reds have had a difficult campaign so far under Arne Slot, currently sitting fifth in the Premier League despite a record-breaking £450m summer transfer window last summer, which saw them break the British transfer record twice to sign Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.
But despite their struggles domestically this season, the club are planning to make more investments to improve their squad for next season, with the midfield understood to be a position they are considering players for.
Liverpool Eyeing Move for Bouaddi
Bouaddi
Bouaddi, who has been described as 'exceptional', has been one of the standout midfield prospects in world football in recent years, after breaking into the Lille squad as a 16-year-old and never looking back.
The midfielder recently opted to represent Morocco at international level despite representing France at youth level, and his performances in Ligue 1 this season have seen a number of top European clubs take a close look at him ahead of the summer window.
Despite signing a new contract in December, Bouaddi is understood to be open to a move away from the club if the right opportunity presents itself, and Lille know they will not be able to hold on to him forever, such is the interest in him and the talent he possesses.
One of the clubs showing a strong interest is Liverpool, who have had scouts present at games as recently as this weekend, as they watched Bouaddi during the 2-1 win over Marseille.
Arsenal are said to be ready to make a big-money move for his services, while Man City and Man Utd have also been linked with a move to bring him to the Premier League. Liverpool are keen, but they face stiff competition to get a deal over the line at this stage.
Bouaddi Would Bring New Dimension to Liverpool Midfield
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Lille vs PSG
With such talent, it's no surprise that top clubs like Liverpool are keeping a close eye on Bouaddi's performances and situation. But Liverpool would undoubtedly be one of the better destinations for him if he were to move on.
Wataru Endo has never been a regular in the side and is now recovering from a serious ankle injury, while there have been doubts over the form of Alexis Mac Allister this season, with some suggesting his head has been turned by Real Madrid. There are also doubts about Curtis Jones, who will enter the final 12 months of his deal in the summer and has been linked with a move away.
Bouaddi would come in and provide great competition and depth for the midfield, while also helping to build towards the future at Anfield. It may be expensive, but if nurtured and developed properly, it could end up being a bargain for Liverpool.