Liverpool and Arsenal Renew Interest in Ayyoub Bouaddi Amid Competition

Recent reports indicate that Liverpool have re-engaged in discussions with the representatives of Ayyoub Bouaddi, while the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are contending with Arsenal and Real Madrid to secure the Lille midfielder’s transfer.

Bouaddi stood out as one of Ligue 1’s top performers last season, attracting attention from several leading clubs, including Liverpool. The young midfielder has also impressed during Morocco’s campaign at the 2026 World Cup, increasing speculation about his departure from Lille after the current season.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano highlighted earlier this month that both Liverpool and Arsenal are keen on acquiring Bouaddi in the upcoming summer transfer window. Romano noted on his YouTube channel that Lille is aware of significant interest from top clubs, with initial contacts made even before the World Cup began.

Romano elaborated: “Between January and now, he’s been approached by Paris Saint-Germain. PSG have long admired Bouaddi, though they are currently not actively seeking midfield reinforcements, which is a factor.”

He added that English clubs have also initiated talks, mentioning direct contacts between Bouaddi’s agents and both Arsenal and Liverpool. Romano described Bouaddi as “one of the best talents around in midfield” at the World Cup.

Chelsea has also been linked to Bouaddi, who remains under contract with Lille until 2029.

Renewed Transfer Inquiries for Bouaddi

According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal and Liverpool have recently submitted fresh inquiries regarding Bouaddi’s availability. The report also states that Real Madrid has entered the pursuit of the 18-year-old midfielder.

Both Liverpool and Real Madrid have intensified their surveillance of Bouaddi’s situation and engaged in talks with his representatives, confirming their interest in the player.

Sources familiar with the negotiations have confirmed that these recent inquiries are part of ongoing assessments by the Premier League and La Liga clubs to determine the feasibility of a transfer.

Among the contenders, Arsenal is reportedly leading the race, having conducted extensive scouting on Bouaddi since he was 16. The Gunners are currently considered best positioned to finalize a deal during the summer window.

However, Lille is demanding a minimum of £60 million for Bouaddi, which would establish a new record as the highest transfer fee ever paid for an 18-year-old footballer.

Paul Parker Advises Caution on Arsenal Move

Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker has expressed his opinion on Bouaddi’s potential transfer, advising the young player against joining Arsenal.

Parker commented: “Arsenal are showing interest in many players following their league win, but some of those players don’t seem to fit the profile of an Arsenal player.”

He continued: “Looking at Bouaddi, there are concerns about his career development if he were to join Arsenal. He has been relatively unknown and hasn’t yet made a significant impact in France.”

Parker warned about the risks of overestimating players based on standout performances in major tournaments, citing the example of Amrabat, who impressed at the Qatar World Cup but did not fully meet expectations at Manchester United.

He added: “There is often a hype around players after one tournament performance. Bouaddi will need to demonstrate consistency, which is not always guaranteed with young talents.”

“If he can maintain the level he showed, then he could be a very interesting prospect.”