Liverpool have once again been credited with an interest in signing Lille starlet Ayyoub Bouaddi this summer. The teenage midfielder is continuing to thrive for Morocco at this summer's World Cup, which is creating more speculation around his future.
Liverpool's Firm Interest
According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool have a 'firm' interest in signing Bouaddi, with the midfielder liked by those inside the club. However, the Reds will face competition from a host of clubs for the sought-after youngster. The report claims that Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid have all been linked with signing Bouaddi, who is widely considered one of the brightest prospects in world football.
Liverpool have already beaten one Premier League rival to a new signing this summer, with the Reds securing a deal for Victor Munoz, who was wanted by Newcastle. Hijacking a deal for Bouaddi will be more difficult, however. Arsenal are said to have held internal discussions about launching a bid to sign the talented £69m-rated star.
World Cup Performances
Bouaddi's performances at the World Cup will no doubt lead to more conversations at some of Europe's biggest clubs, with fans so far wowed by his composure and strength at such a tender age. He was particularly impressive in the draw with Brazil and the win over Scotland.
Arsenal have a long-held interest in Bouaddi, meaning Liverpool will have work to do if they wish to leapfrog their Premier League rivals in the battle to sign the midfielder this summer.
Lille's Stance and Player's Ambitions
A separate report in The Athletic has claimed that Lille are determined to keep Bouaddi, but he is said to be valued at around €80million (£69m) this summer. The report also claims that Bouaddi, if he were to leave Lille, would want to join a club where he would be a regular starter in the middle of the park.
This could hand Liverpool a boost, given some of the other clubs reportedly interested in signing the teenager may not be able to meet those needs. Arsenal have Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Martin Zubimendi as regular figures in the midfield role where Bouaddi would typically feature.
Man City are reportedly on the verge of signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, for a fee reported to be worth around £116million. Given City are expected to spend more than £100million on one midfielder who would be expected to start most games, it remains to be seen whether a move for Bouaddi would still be possible.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are likely to prioritise the signing of another attacker before looking to strengthen elsewhere, with RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande a top target.
