Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has admitted he is "really happy" to be linked with a move to several major clubs this summer, though he maintains his concentration remains fixed on the World Cup with his country before making any decisions about his future.
The 18-year-old has been credited as a player of interest to several clubs, with Liverpool the most recent to reportedly establish contact for Bouaddi, following his remarkable emergence on the international stage.
Premier League rivals Arsenal are also reportedly amongst the contenders for the midfielder, as sides seek to secure one of football's most exciting young talents in the summer transfer window. Fans of those clubs will have been impressed by how the rumoured transfer target fared in his debut World Cup appearance, dictating proceedings for Morocco in their group C opener against Brazil.
Despite the abundance of world-class talent on display from both sides, including Vinicius Jr and Raphinha, alongside Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari, it was the teenage Bouaddi who rose above the rest to deliver one of the finest performances on the pitch.
This has inevitably sent transfer speculation into overdrive, with reports suggesting that Liverpool may look to bring the Lille star to Anfield during the summer window.
While that may prove feasible, there could be a delay in finalising any agreement, as Bouaddi confirmed his immediate attention is directed towards the World Cup.
Speaking to The Athletic following his performance against Brazil, he said: "For the moment, I am only focused on the World Cup and I cannot answer to this right now. Of course, I'm really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me. But, for now, I'm only focused on the World Cup with Morocco and we will try to give everything to do our best."
While it remains unclear what lies ahead for Bouaddi regarding a possible transfer, there were numerous encouraging indicators suggesting he would be prepared for a switch to the Premier League, despite his young age.
It now remains to be seen what plans Liverpool will have for the summer transfer window, in what could be a busy couple of months for the club.
Andoni Iraola is preparing for his first season as Liverpool's new manager following the departure of Arne Slot, and already a host of players have been linked with moves to Anfield. Iraola will take charge of pre-season training in July, which will also include a trip to the United States, and it remains unclear if the Reds will make any new signings before they travel across the Atlantic.
