Liverpool are in the race to sign Ligue 1 star in January | OneFootball

Liverpool join growing queue for Ayyoub Bouaddi as Lille brace for major decision

Liverpool’s recruitment department has been tracking elite young midfielders across Europe for several windows, and attention has increasingly settled on Ayyoub Bouaddi. The Lille midfielder is now firmly established as one of the most coveted talents of his generation, with interest accelerating as clubs position themselves ahead of the summer market.

Bouaddi’s rise has been rapid rather than sudden. Internally, he is viewed not as a short-term opportunity but as a long-range investment: a player capable of shaping a midfield for years rather than merely supplementing it. That profile aligns closely with Liverpool’s current transfer strategy, which prioritises technical quality, durability and tactical intelligence over headline signings.

At Lille, there is an acceptance that attention from the Premier League and beyond is no longer speculative. The French club have taken steps to strengthen their negotiating position, but interest is now sufficiently advanced that conversations are shifting from scouting reports to feasibility.

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Why Bouaddi fits Liverpool’s long-term planning

Bouaddi is not being considered in isolation. Liverpool’s midfield rebuild has been ongoing, shaped by the need for players comfortable operating in multiple phases of play. Bouaddi’s appeal lies in his balance: press-resistant on the ball, disciplined without it, and tactically mature beyond his years.

Scouts have consistently highlighted his spatial awareness and ability to receive under pressure, traits that translate well to the Premier League’s intensity. His development at Lille has also included exposure to European competition, which has accelerated his learning curve and hardened his decision-making.

Crucially, Liverpool see Bouaddi as a player who could initially rotate before growing into a more central role. That pathway is important. The club is wary of repeating mistakes where young signings are either overexposed too quickly or stalled without a clear progression plan.

From Bouaddi’s perspective, Liverpool are viewed as an attractive option precisely because of that structure. There is an understanding that game time would need to be earned, but also that development would be closely managed.

Lille’s stance and valuation signals

Lille OSC have been preparing for this moment. By extending Bouaddi’s contract until 2029, they ensured leverage in any negotiations and sent a clear message to the market that a cut-price deal would not be entertained.

Sources close to the situation suggest Lille would expect a fee in excess of €60 million to consider a sale. That figure reflects not only Bouaddi’s potential but also the current scarcity of young midfielders who combine technical quality with tactical reliability.

Lille’s preference is to avoid a drawn-out saga. They are open to dialogue but want clarity early in the window, particularly if Bouaddi is to be replaced. The club’s recent history shows they are willing sellers at the right price, but only on their terms.

Competition across Europe intensifies

Liverpool are not alone. Several Premier League clubs have carried out extensive due diligence, while interest from Spain and Italy remains active. Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring the situation closely, aware of the political and sporting importance of retaining top French talent within Ligue 1.

What complicates matters is Bouaddi’s own approach. Those familiar with his thinking describe a player focused on development rather than status. Regular football, a defined role and a stable environment are said to rank higher than immediate profile or salary.

That mindset could work in Liverpool’s favour, particularly if the club can articulate a clear sporting plan. However, the scale of competition means that timing and decisiveness will be crucial.

Decision window approaching

As things stand, no formal bid has been lodged, but groundwork is being laid. Liverpool’s interest is genuine and ongoing, with internal discussions continuing over valuation and squad fit. Lille, meanwhile, are braced for enquiries and expect clarity once the season concludes.

Bouaddi’s future is not imminent, but it is coming into focus. For Liverpool, this is less about opportunism and more about alignment. For Lille, it is about maximising value without disrupting their sporting model. And for Bouaddi himself, the next move may define the trajectory of a career that already points firmly towards the elite level.