Arsenal will have to see off a strong challenge from Manchester United in the battle for Ayyoub Bouaddi’s signature.
It was reported by trusted journalist Fabrice Hawkins late last year that the Gunners were ready to table an offer in the region of €45m (£39m) for the teenager, but his club, Lille, were not willing to let him leave before the end of the season.
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Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool and Manchester United were mentioned as potential rival suitors at the time, but another French reporter, Abdellah Boulma, now says that PSG and (more specifically) United are making the most effort to persuade Bouaddi.
Posting on his X account, Boulma said that the Red Devils could go as far as “enlisting Sir Alex Ferguson” in order to get the move over the line.
What do fans need to know about Bouaddi?
The midfielder only turned 18 in October last year, but he has been a firm fixture in Lille’s first team since the start of last season. He has racked up 94 senior appearances already despite his age.
Many regard Bouaddi as one of the most promising young midfielders in Europe, so it is not a surprise that so many teams are keen on securing his services.
He did sign a new contract with Lille back in December, keeping him with the Ligue One side until the summer of 2029, but there is a feeling that he will be sold for a big fee over the coming months.
Arsenal are prioritising other positions
While reinforcing the midfield is on the agenda for sporting director Andrea Berta, the front line is deemed to be in more urgent need of strengthening.
Bringing in a left winger is reportedly the highest priority, while the club are still hoping they can sign Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez as well, despite the sizeable costs involved.
Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here