Real Madrid add 18-year-old World Cup breakout star to their transfer wishlist | OneFootball

World Cups always tend to introduce the world to names in the sport they may not necessarily have heard of before.

One of the best examples of this in 2022 was Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez, who was playing at Benfica back then.

He shot to fame with his performances for the champions, prompted Chelsea to spend nine figures on him months later and is now linked with a move to Real Madrid.

There will definitely be similar stories at this World Cup as well, and one prodigious talent who has already caught everyone’s eye is Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Real Madrid track Bouaddi

The teenage midfielder, who represented France at youth level, switched allegiances to Morocco and made an instant impact against Brazil.

Although he may not have been the official Man of the Match on the night, there was no doubt that the teenager was the best player on the pitch from either team.

Real Madrid like Bouaddi. (Photo by Vincent Carchietta/Getty Images)

Interest in him was likely to soar after the game, and now, according to AS, Bouaddi has entered Los Blancos’ radar over a potential transfer.

Real Madrid have been looking in the market for a new midfielder, with names like Enzo Fernandez and Mateus Fernandes on the radar.

If Bouaddi can continue to impress for Morocco at the tournament, there is no doubt that more clubs around Europe will enter the race for him.

A prodigious midfield talent

Real Madrid are doing their homework, and that is exactly what they should be doing before committing huge money to a midfielder.

Enzo Fernandez appears to be the priority. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Enzo would bring proven top-level experience, while Mateus appears to be a serious market option, but Bouaddi offers a different route: youth, upside and perhaps a more strategic long-term fit.

Mourinho has a clear need in midfield, and Real Madrid are exploring different profiles before deciding. The 18-year-old may not be the finished product, but his ceiling is extremely high and definitely a player the Portuguese manager can work with..

Real Madrid will have a real battle on their hands if they decide to move for him, and it remains to be seen how things play out.