Quantcast
Home   >   Transfer News   >   Arsenal in fierce battle to sign Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi

Arsenal in fierce battle to sign Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi

By on December 8, 2025

Ayyoub Bouaddi

Arsenal are reportedly in a fierce battle to sign LOSC Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi, as per French football journalist Santi Aouna.

The Gunners displayed inconsistent performances during the first five games of this season and found themselves five points behind the top of the Premier League table.

However, having won the next five consecutive matches, they secured their place at the top of the league with a healthy lead and established themselves as the favourite to win the Premier League title this season finally.

Now, after losing seven points in the last five league matches, Arsenal’s lead at the top of the table has reduced to just two points with Manchester City sitting in second position.

Previously, Arsenal went head-to-head with the Citizens for the league title twice under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, and on both occasions, Pep Guardiola’s side lifted the trophy.

Although Man City haven’t looked at their very best so far this season, it would be very difficult for Arsenal to win the league if Guardiola’s side regain their form over the coming months.

Meanwhile, although Arsenal decided to reinforce the squad by spending over £250m last summer, they continue to explore the market to add further depth. Now, on X, Aouna states that Arsenal are interested in reinforcing the midfield and have identified Bouaddi as a serious target.

Bouaddi to Arsenal

They have been keeping a ‘very close’ eye on his development before making a potential swoop. However, purchasing the 18-year-old won’t be straightforward as Manchester United, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, PSG and Juventus are in this race as well.

Although Bouaddi recently signed a contract extension with Lille, the French side are prepared to let him leave for a fee of around £52m next year.

Bouaddi is eligible to represent both Morocco and France, and both nations are trying their best to convince him. Ultimately, the decision rests with the player regarding where he wants to continue his international career. He is currently a France U21 international.

Although Arsenal don’t need to add further depth to the midfield department next year as they already are well-resourced, they seemingly don’t want to give up an opportunity like this to sign a player of Bouaddi’s qualities.