Image Credits: Imago Images
Ayyoub Bouaddi arrived at the World Cup as one of Ligue 1’s most exciting young prospects, but his performances with Morocco have elevated him onto the wider European radar, with Liverpool closely monitoring his progress.
The Reds have been tracking the defensive midfielder for a while, with reports suggesting club scouts attended several of Lille’s European fixtures throughout the season.
Their interest is understood to be genuine.
However, Liverpool is far from alone in the race.
Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City are all keeping a close eye on the teenager’s development.
City, though, appear to be leading the chase at this stage, with discussions reportedly underway over a potential deal that could reach €100 million.
Now Lille club president Olivier Létang has provided a new update on their stance.
Speaking in a press conference as quoted by GFFN, Létang said that he “should stay” for another season:
“We have seen each other since his return from the World Cup. I can’t say what was said. Everything is possible, but my opinion is that he should stay with us another season. My conviction is that there is a strong chance that he stays with us and he would be very happy to do so.”
The president also previously suggested that Bouaddi’s price will be well over €100m:
“How to answer the question… I spoke, mentioned the subject, gave a figure? No, never.”
“You have to look at his level. How many players like Elliott Anderson or Sandro Tonali, who are much older, but with no room for progress, so you have an idea of the value of Ayyoub, who has a unique profile at only 18 years old.”
On top of that, the French side are seeking tricky conditions: either a one‑year loan‑back for the 2026/27 season or a pre‑agreement that would see Bouaddi officially move in 2027/28.