Arsenal have moved ahead of Manchester United and Liverpool in the race to sign LOSC Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to Caught Offside.
The 18-year-old began his youth career at AFC Creil before joining Lille’s academy in 2021, quickly developing into one of European football’s most exciting young talents.
Bouaddi made his first-team debut for the Ligue 1 side at just 16 years of age before cementing himself as a key starter last season.
He made 42 appearances across all competitions, registered a solitary assist, and played a meaningful role in helping Lille secure Champions League qualification.
Despite representing France at various youth levels, Bouaddi has chosen to play his senior international football for Morocco, making his World Cup debut with an impressive performance against Brazil.
Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain have all expressed interest in the midfielder after being impressed by his recent eye-catching showings.
Lille are reluctant to sell Bouaddi to a direct domestic rival, though PSG have not given up on signing him, viewing the youngster as an ideal fit for Luis Enrique’s playing system.
Arsenal have taken the most decisive steps so far, with the club’s sporting director Andrea Berta having already done significant groundwork on a potential deal.
Crucially, the Gunners have already held direct talks with Bouaddi’s representatives, placing them at the front of the queue ahead of their Premier League rivals.
Bouaddi recently extended his contract with Lille until 2029, meaning the French club are under no pressure to sell and have placed an £80m price tag on the player.
Standing at 6ft 1in, the right-footed deep-lying playmaker is described as technically sound, quick, strong, and tidy in possession while also contributing effectively without the ball.
His physical and technical profile is considered well-suited to the demands of Premier League football, adding to his appeal for clubs competing at the highest level.
Arsenal’s early groundwork gives them an advantage, but with Liverpool, Manchester United, and PSG all circling, the battle for Bouaddi’s signature promises to intensify in the coming weeks.