‘I’m really happy’: Ayyoub Bouaddi coy on future despite growing Liverpool interest | OneFootball

Liverpool transfer target Ayyoub Bouaddi has admitted he’s ‘happy’ to be linked with a move to Anfield but wants to focus on the ongoing World Cup with Morocco.

The 18-year-old midfielder has emerged as one of the standout performers at the World Cup, sparking plenty of interest from clubs across Europe, including Liverpool.

Bouaddi’s fame skyrocketed following a phenomenal performance in Morocco’s World Cup curtain raiser against Brazil, prompting attention from Liverpool among other clubs.

He has become one of the most talked-about young players on the continent, and Liverpool is keen to strengthen their midfield with one of Europe’s brightest emerging talents.

Dubbed Lille’s ‘best prospect since Eden Hazard’, Bouaddi was a standout performer in a game that featured some of the best players in the world, which speaks volumes about his maturity despite being a teenager.

There’s still some way to go in the competition, but the talented midfielder is already in line to secure a big-money move away from Lille this summer.

While European clubs are going head-to-head to secure his signature, Bouaddi has made it clear that he will not allow transfer rumours to distract him from Morocco’s World Cup ambitions.

Talks may be ongoing behind the scenes, but Bouaddi wants to wait until after the showpiece event in North America before making a decision on his long-term future.

When asked if he will be coming to the Premier League, Bouaddi told The Athletic: “For the moment, I am only focused on the World Cup, and I cannot answer this right now.

“Of course, I’m really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me. But, for now, I’m only focused on the World Cup with Morocco, and we will try to give everything to do our best.”

Fabrizio Romano claims that Liverpool have already made ‘direct contact’ for Bouaddi, although they’ll face serious competition from Arsenal, who are also keen.

However, it could take a significant offer to prize him away from Lille, considering he still has three years left on his contract with the Ligue 1 club.