Arsenal have held a meeting ahead of potentially signing a 'superstar in the making' for the summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano.
As we look towards the summer transfer window, the Gunners have already started making moves in order to plan ahead and bring in reinforcements to improve their squad.
The World Cup adds a degree of difference in terms of recruitment, with players showcasing their ability on the biggest stage.
Players often see their values drastically increase after an impressive tournament, while it is not rare to see players make big moves after the World Cup.
It's a real opportunity for clubs to scout talent from around the world, but they often face huge competition for signatures.
Arsenal Hold Talks for Superstar Signing
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According to Italian journalist Romano, Arsenal are one of the sides to have held meetings with the representatives of Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi ahead of the summer transfer window.
Liverpool are also said to have held a meeting, with the two Premier League sides starting conversations before the beginning of the World Cup.
"Lille knows very well that top clubs will be coming for Bouaddi, because even before the World Cup, some of the biggest clubs in the world started some conversations with his agents. I can tell you that between January and now, for sure, he's been approached by Paris Saint-Germain. Paris Saint-Germain love Bouaddi. At the moment, they are not so busy with midfielders on the market, so that's a point. But Paris Saint-Germain absolutely love Bouaddi, and they've been tracking him for a long time. Then we have to mention also that English clubs started having conversations for Bouaddi. For example, there were direct contacts with Arsenal and direct contacts also with Liverpool, so both clubs had meetings with the agents of the player, but now shining at the World Cup, one of the best talents around in midfield."
Lille are believed to be well aware of interest from a number of clubs, with Paris Saint-Germain also keen on the Moroccan international.
The 18-year-old played a crucial role in helping Morocco secure a 1-1 draw against Brazil in their opening game of the World Cup tournament.
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Bouaddi Shines on World Cup Stage
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Lille vs PSG
Bouaddi certainly put his name up in lights in Morocco's opening game of the World Cup against Brazil.
Sky Sports presenter Joe Thomlinson described Bouaddi as a superstar in the making, while one journalist suggested that he was similar to Declan Rice.
It was a phenomenal performance from the midfielder who would have gained plaudits even if he was an established senior professional.
It was even more impressive that Bouaddi was just 18 years old, making his debut at a World Cup.
Bouaddi only made his debut for Morocco last month, initially representing France at international youth level.