Arsenal’s interest in Ayyoub Bouaddi has now been confirmed by a club insider.
However, there is a major obstacle standing between the Gunners and a deal for the Morocco midfielder.
Speaking on the Arsecast podcast, James McNicholas was clear about Arsenal’s interest in the Lille teenager.
“He’s definitely a player Arsenal have discussed and looked at and followed for quite a long time now,” he said, before highlighting the obstacle that could prevent a deal.
“He signed a new long-term contract with Lille in December. And that’s why the prices you’re seeing associated with him now are significantly chunkier than they might have been.
👀 NAME a BETTER midfield target for Arsenal than Ayyoub Bouaddi… I bet you CAN’T…
🌟 The 18-year-old looked so good vs Brazil's at the World Cup!
“I’ve seen €70million floated as an asking price potentially from Lille, and that I think raises questions of — I guess, Arsenal have to weigh that level of investment for a player of that relative inexperience.”
That is fair — Bouaddi is only 18 years old. He has, however, already made 96 senior appearances for Lille.
Fabrizio Romano has already confirmed that Arsenal have made direct contact with those around the player, who has indicated his interest in a move to north London.
At the moment, the only problem is the price.
Ayyoub Bouaddi is worth the investment for Arsenal
Bouaddi’s new contract, which runs until 2029, has naturally inflated Lille’s valuation for the player.
A fee of €70million for a teenager, however talented, is a considerable ask, particularly when Arsenal are simultaneously pursuing multiple targets across the pitch.
Andrea Berta’s midfield search has already taken multiple turns this summer. Sandro Tonali remains a target but there are reservations over Newcastle’s demands.
Meanwhile, alternative target Mateus Fernandes looks set to join Manchester United.
Meanwhile, Roma’s Manu Kone has been sounded out as a more affordable alternative, being available for around £43million.
Bouaddi, at €70million, sits somewhere between those valuations, and his versatility to cover at right-back gives him an edge over pure midfield options.
He has been impressive at the World Cup with Morocco too, catching the eye in their 1-1 draw with Brazil.
But at €70million for an 18-year-old, Arsenal must decide whether the potential justifies the price, and whether those funds would be better directed elsewhere.
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