Arsenal move to steal world-class midfielder from under Liverpool noses | OneFootball

Arsenal have made the first major move to steal a midfielder from right under the noses of Liverpool.

Liverpool are in the market for a midfielder this summer. We can't imagine whoever they go for comes particularly cheap, though, and it'll likely be a fairly big-money arrival.

The real question is around the age of the player. Do Liverpool want a development project? Or are they chasing a finished article who can slot right into the middle?

Because as a 'project player' there isn't a better option than Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old Lille star lit up the World Cup in midfield for Morocco against Brazil at the weekend.

Bouaddi was already considered one of the best prospects in Europe. He's now proven an ability to perform at the absolute elite level - Liverpool could well consider him to be a perfect signing.

Fabrizio Romano also claims that there have been initial talks between the Reds and representatives of Bouaddi. However, Arsenal have done the same.

And now The Times reports that Arsenal are looking to steal the midfielder before anyone else. They've yet to make an offer but it appears their interest is now serious.

Liverpool, if they ultimately do want Bouaddi, will need to act fast if they're to land the talent. The World Cup is only going to bring in more takers and, as Arsenal's early move shows, make that interest very serious, very fast.

Ayyoub Bouaddi: Situation Summary

Lille Career and Performance

As of 15 June 2026, Ayyoub Bouaddi is an 18-year-old central midfielder for Lille OSC. Since becoming the youngest player to debut in a UEFA club competition back in late 2023, the elegant playmaker has developed into a vital engine for the French side. The 2025/26 season served as his definitive breakthrough campaign, as he registered 34 Ligue 1 appearances and established himself as one of Europe's premier teenage talents. His exceptional vision and composed distribution in the center of the pitch helped Lille secure a top-four finish and qualification for the UEFA Champions League.

International Status and World Cup Involvement

Bouaddi is currently an integral part of the France Under-21 squad, having opted to continue his international development within the French youth setup. Although he was heavily monitored by senior manager Didier Deschamps following his domestic success, Bouaddi was not included in the final 26-man senior France squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Elite clubs across Europe, including Real Madrid and Juventus, are reportedly preparing substantial summer bids to tempt Lille into selling their prized midfield prodigy.