A transfer tug-of-war is brewing in the Premier League as Liverpool and Arsenal have both reportedly agreed to a crucial financial demand from Lille for Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 21-year-old, who shone for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe, and the two English giants are now leading the race, according to FourFourTwo.
The Key Agreement
While Lille have been reluctant to sell their prized asset, it is understood that both Liverpool and Arsenal have indicated a willingness to meet the Ligue 1 club’s valuation of around €60 million. Crucially, the two Premier League sides have also accepted a demand that any deal will include a 10% sell-on clause, giving Lille a share of any future transfer profit. This breakthrough could open the door for formal negotiations to begin.
“Lille have been clear from the start that they will not entertain offers below their asking price, and the sell-on clause is non-negotiable. Now that Liverpool and Arsenal have signalled they are prepared to meet those terms, the real battle for the player’s signature can commence,” a source close to the situation told FourFourTwo.
Bouaddi’s World Cup Stardom
Bouaddi emerged as one of the breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup, driving Morocco to the quarter-finals with his dynamic displays in central midfield. His composure on the ball, range of passing, and defensive work rate drew comparisons to Ismaël Bennacer, but his ability to carry the ball from deep and break lines has attracted attention from Europe’s elite.
Having made his breakthrough at Lille in 2024/25, Bouaddi has already amassed over 80 Ligue 1 appearances, contributing 9 goals and 14 assists from midfield. His rapid rise saw him become a mainstay in the Morocco national team, and his World Cup performances only cemented his reputation.
The Bidding War
Liverpool’s interest stems from a need to rejuvenate their midfield, with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai still effective but lacking a true progressive ball-carrier. Arsenal, on the other hand, see Bouaddi as an ideal long-term partner for Declan Rice, adding creativity and legs alongside the England star.
However, the two English clubs are not alone. Manchester City and Real Madrid have also been credited with an interest, and the prospect of a bidding war could drive the price even higher. Yet Liverpool and Arsenal’s willingness to agree to Lille’s key term—the sell-on clause—gives them an early advantage in what promises to be a fiercely contested transfer saga.
Key Takeaways
- Liverpool and Arsenal have both agreed to Lille’s €60 million valuation and a 10% sell-on clause for Ayyoub Bouaddi.
- Bouaddi’s outstanding performances at the 2026 World Cup for Morocco have made him a transfer priority for Europe’s elite.
- The 21-year-old midfielder has over 80 Ligue 1 appearances and is seen as a complete box-to-box talent.
- Other clubs including Manchester City and Real Madrid remain interested, but the two Premier League sides are now frontrunners.
- A formal bidding war could escalate, with Lille hoping to start an auction for their academy product.
Quick Facts
Player: Ayyoub Bouaddi
Age: 21
Club: Lille
Position: Central Midfield
Ligue 1 Appearances: 83
World Cup 2026: 5 appearances, 2 assists, quarter-finalist
Reported Fee: €60 million + 10% sell-on clause