Liverpool have ‘already spoke’ to £48m midfielder over January move | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Eyeing Potential £48m Midfield Move

Liverpool’s title defence has gone from promising to problematic. After Sunday’s 3-0 loss at Manchester City, Arne Slot’s side have now suffered five defeats in their last six league games, a sharp contrast to the consistency that carried them to the Premier League title just months ago. Much of the frustration from supporters has centred on the same issue that plagued the side early last season: the absence of a true defensive midfielder.

Amidst this growing concern, Dave Davis from Anfield Index’s Transfer Show has shed light on Liverpool’s latest potential solution. The club’s recruitment team appear to be looking towards France, specifically to Lille’s 18-year-old Ayoub Bouaddi.

Scouting Bouaddi – A Calculated Move

According to Davis, “He’s a player that Liverpool are having a serious look at.” The teenager’s rise in Ligue 1 has caught attention across Europe, and Liverpool’s scouts have been among the most frequent visitors. “Liverpool have scouted this player a number of times and our info is that Liverpool have spoken to the player and the club a number of times.”

The financial element could make this a classic Liverpool-style deal. Davis explained, “In terms of the way we operate and looking for a bargain, in the summer he will only have one year left on his contract.” Lille’s asking price, however, reflects his potential. “Our info is that if it was to be a January move, then Lille would deal at around £48m.”

What Bouaddi Could Bring

Liverpool’s need for a tenacious yet composed midfielder has rarely been clearer. As Davis noted, “We all want an aggressive midfielder in there and more legs in this Liverpool side and he’s also a solid passer and can carry the ball.” His defensive output appears encouraging, too. “He’s 75th percentile for tackles and 80th percentile for blocks.”

The data backs up the visual impression of a player who can win duels and transition play quickly. At just 18, Bouaddi has already featured heavily for Lille, which hints at maturity beyond his years. “It could be one where you wonder whether he’s ready for a big move but he’s already played big minutes for Lille at just 18.”

Photo: IMAGO

Timing and Transfer Reality

While Liverpool’s interest seems concrete, the question remains whether action will follow. Davis summarised it succinctly: “With a year left to go in the summer, Liverpool are well aware of the fee that it would take to bring him to Anfield. Will they do it? That’s a different question entirely.”

That uncertainty feels like the story of Liverpool’s recent transfer windows. Slot’s men have flair and energy in abundance but continue to look unbalanced in key areas. As the gap to Arsenal widens to eight points, recruitment decisions over the next two months could define how quickly Liverpool recover from this slump.