Arsenal have reportedly opened discussions with the representatives of Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirming that the Gunners are among a number of top European clubs monitoring the 18-year-old ahead of a potential summer move.
Romano has indicated that *ARSENAL*and Liverpool have both made direct contact with Bouaddi’s camp, while Paris Saint-Germain are also firmly in the race for the highly rated Morocco international.
However, no formal bid has yet been submitted to Lille, who are expected to demand a fee in the region of £60–70 million for one of Ligue 1’s most promising young talents.
Bouaddi’s profile has risen sharply following a standout 1–1 draw against Brazil in Morocco’s opening fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he delivered a composed and mature midfield performance against an experienced Brazilian engine room.
His display has only intensified interest from Europe’s elite clubs, with Arsenal understood to be long-term admirers who have tracked his development for over a year.
Romano has previously noted that conversations between clubs and the player’s representatives are at an exploratory stage, but described the situation as part of a wider “summer of midfielders,” with multiple top-level negotiations expected across Europe in the coming weeks.
Arsenal’s interest is believed to be driven by Mikel Arteta’s desire to further strengthen his midfield depth, despite recent additions in that area: “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.”
Bouaddi, who came through the academy at Lille, has already accumulated close to a century of senior appearances despite his age, underlining his rapid rise in professional football. His blend of physicality, technical quality and tactical maturity has drawn comparisons with some of Europe’s leading midfielders, making him one of the most sought-after young players in the market.
Lille, meanwhile, remain in a strong negotiating position after securing the player on a long-term contract until 2029, meaning any potential deal is likely to require a significant financial package and competition from multiple bidders
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