Lille chairman Olivier Letang has issued a stark warning to Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich regarding the potential transfer of teenage midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, suggesting the 18-year-old will command a fee far exceeding initial estimates.
Bouaddi shines at World Cup
Bouaddi has been instrumental in Morocco's run to the World Cup quarter-finals, starting four matches including knockout wins over the Netherlands and Canada. The teenager has already accumulated nearly 100 senior appearances for Lille over two seasons.
Letang sets price benchmark
Letang dismissed reports that Lille were seeking between £69 million and £89 million for Bouaddi. Speaking to Eurosport, he pointed to recent transfers: Manchester City paid £116 million for Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, while Tottenham spent £100 million on Sandro Tonali from Newcastle. Letang argued Bouaddi should be valued similarly, saying: 'How much have players like Anderson or Tonali been sold for, who are much older, but without room for improvement, so you have an idea of the value of Ayyoub, who has a unique profile at only 18 years old.'
Unique talent comparisons
Letang did not shy away from lofty comparisons, placing Bouaddi alongside sporting icons like Victor Wembanyama, Leon Marchand, and Kylian Mbappe. 'He belongs among the true sportsmen,' Letang said. He also mentioned Rodri, Sergio Busquets, and Johan Cruyff, but stressed: 'Ayyoub is unique and is himself, so he shouldn't be compared.'
Clubs on alert
With interest from Europe's elite, Letang's comments serve as a clear signal that any bid for Bouaddi must be substantial. 'Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him right now,' he added.
