Arsenal are facing growing competition in their pursuit of Ayyoub Bouaddi after Manchester City stepped up their interest in the highly-rated Lille midfielder.
The Premier League champions have tracked the Morocco international for several months and remain admirers of the teenager, but Manchester City have now made their move.
Reports indicate that City have held direct talks with Lille as they look to position themselves in the race for one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
Bouaddi has enhanced his reputation further with a series of impressive displays for Morocco at the World Cup.
The 18-year-old has looked composed on the biggest stage, with his performances attracting attention from several elite European clubs.
Arsenal have already held discussions with the player’s representatives and continue to view Bouaddi as one of the continent’s standout midfield prospects.
The club see him as a player capable of fitting into Mikel Arteta’s long-term plans alongside Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Manchester City, however, have now emerged as serious contenders.
The club are continuing the rebuild of their midfield following Bernardo Silva’s departure this summer and have identified Bouaddi as one of the young players capable of becoming a long-term fixture at the Etihad Stadium.
New head coach Enzo Maresca is also expected to play a major role in shaping City’s next generation, with the club looking to maintain a blend of established stars and elite young talent.
Lille remain under little pressure to sell.
Bouaddi is contracted until 2029, leaving the Ligue 1 club in a strong negotiating position.
Reports suggest they value the midfielder at around £60 million and are prepared to wait for the right offer.
The French side believe his value could rise even further if he continues his impressive World Cup form.
Bouaddi has earned widespread praise for his maturity, technical quality and intelligence in possession despite being only 18.
His display against Brazil was particularly eye-catching as he controlled large spells of the midfield against vastly more experienced opponents.
Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has also encouraged the Gunners to pursue the youngster.
Petit recently described Bouaddi as one of France’s outstanding emerging talents, highlighting his composure, athleticism and tactical understanding while suggesting he possesses the attributes needed to thrive in the Premier League.
The teenager is expected to prioritise his sporting project when deciding his future.
Regular first-team opportunities and a clear development pathway are understood to be among his key considerations.
That could strengthen Arsenal’s case given Arteta’s track record of integrating young players into the senior squad.
Nevertheless, Manchester City’s latest move has intensified the battle for Bouaddi, leaving Arsenal facing a significant challenge if they are to secure one of European football’s most sought-after midfield prospects this summer.