Ayyoub Bouaddi has been one of the standout performers at this summer’s World Cup so far.
The Lille midfielder impressed in Morocco’s opening 1-1 draw with Brazil before backing it up in a 1-0 win over Scotland, virtually securing their place in the next round.
Arsenal are interested in signing Bouaddi, who has drawn comparisons to Patrick Vieira and Sergio Busquets, and his performances on the biggest stage have fans excited about the prospect of seeing him at the Emirates.
👀 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!
But they will have to see off competition from some of Europe’s elite.
Real Madrid join PSG and Arsenal in the race to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi
According to ESPN journalist Rodra, Real Madrid are closely monitoring Bouaddi’s situation.
“Real Madrid appreciates Bouaddi,” Rodra said on Ruben Martin’s YouTube channel. “They are closely following him. PSG has the edge for his signature, but the Lille president prefers another destination.”
Lille president Olivier Letang would rather avoid strengthening a domestic rival, which works against PSG despite being Bouaddi’s reported preferred destination.
The appointment of Jose Mourinho could attract Bouaddi to La Liga if Real Madrid do step up their interest.
Flashscore add that PSG themselves are considering whether they need to accelerate their own approach, given the growing competition.
Arsenal’s Premier League rivals Liverpool have also been credited with interest in the teenager.
Ayyoub Bouaddi makes so much sense for Arsenal
Bouaddi signed a new contract with Lille in December which, naturally, has inflated his valuation and strengthened the club’s negotiating position.
He is not going to be cheap. But at around £60million, he is considerably more affordable than the inflated prices being demanded for midfield targets in England, such as Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.
There is also his versatility to consider. Bouaddi’s ability to cover at right-back gives Arsenal a potential solution to two problems at once, given the club are also searching for reinforcements in that position.
With Real Madrid, PSG and Liverpool all circling, Arsenal may need to move quickly to secure a deal before the price rises even higher.
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