Arsenal are poised to sign a new central midfielder this summer.
The Premier League holders have already been linked with multiple names and are currently pursuing a deal for the highly rated Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille.
Sky Sport CH claim that Arsenal have been able to convince the 18-year-old, and discussions will take place with Les Dogues for a transfer after the World Cup.
Bouaddi made his World Cup debut with Morocco against Brazil yesterday, and showed exactly why the Gunners are interested in him with a dazzling performance.
The teenager started in the heart of Morocco’s midfield and got the better of Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes on many occasions during the first half.
Bouaddi won an impressive nine ground and aerial duels. He also made six recoveries while completing three out of five dribbles attempted in 90 minutes.
The £60 million-rated youngster also completed 60 out of 66 passes with an accuracy of 91 percent. 28 out of those were progressive passes in the opposite half.
It is unsurprising that Arsenal are exploring a transfer for the Moroccan wonderkid. The Gunners have held a long-term interest and could make a formal bid soon.
They may have to be proactive in the pursuit, given that Paris Saint-Germain are also keen.
Bouaddi ‘slightly favours’ a move to the Champions League holders, though Les Parisiens may need to sell first before pursuing a potential deal for the Lille graduate.
The midfielder has ‘indicated his interest in the prospect of a transfer‘ to Arsenal, and manager Mikel Arteta could have a key role to play in upcoming discussions.
A meeting is planned between Arsenal and Bouaddi after the World Cup, with Arteta set to be involved.
Stats from Sofascore