The summer transfer window has officially opened, and while much of the attention is on the World Cup, clubs across Europe are continuing work behind the scenes on major deals.
Most teams have already completed their planning, identifying targets to sign and players to sell, with managers, sporting directors and recruitment teams constantly assessing the market. The transfer rumour mill is beginning to gather pace, and several high-profile stories are already emerging.
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Ayyoub Bouaddi has been widely praised for his performances at the World Cup, with his composed display against Brazil in Morocco’s opener earning particular attention.
The midfielder is under close watch from several top clubs, with Liverpool, Chelseaand Paris Saint-Germain all understood to have held talks or tracked his progress.
Bouaddi only recently signed a contract extension with LOSC Lille before the tournament, tying him down until 2029.
According to Sky Germany’s Patrick Berger, Real Madrid are also showing interest, with Madrid’s head of scouting Juni Calafat, among those who watched Morocco’s match against Brazil in New Jersey as part of ongoing scouting work.
Berger posed on X: “Real Madrid are very interested in Ayyoub Bouaddi (18). People from Real Madrid, including Juni Calafat, were in attendance at the Brazil vs Morocco match in New Jersey to watch him closely. The club will continue to monitor his situation. Lille are demanding at least €70m for the talented midfielder.”
LOSC Lille are in no rush to sell Ayyoub Bouaddi, with his recent contract extension designed not only to improve his terms but also to protect his market value ahead of the World Cup.
Bouaddi made 42 appearances across all competitions for Lille last season as he established himself as a key part of the squad.
The French side reached the last 16 of the Europa League and finished third in Ligue 1, securing qualification for next season’s Champions League.
The midfielder has also acknowledged the growing interest in him, saying he is “really happy” clubs are watching him this summer. Bouaddi said: “For the moment, I’m only focused on the World Cup. I cannot answer this right now.
“I am really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me, but for now, I’m here focused on the World Cup with Morocco and we will try to give everything to do our best.” Morocco will be hoping he can maintain his strong form for the remainder of the tournament.