Arsenal and Chelsea in race for Lille’s Moroccan talent Ayyoub Bouaddi

Arsenal and Chelsea are actively pursuing Lille’s 18-year-old Franco-Moroccan prodigy, Ayyoub Bouaddi, as the club prepares for a potential summer transfer.

Bouaddi, a rising star widely regarded for his technical skill and maturity on the pitch, has drawn attention from multiple top European clubs.

Both Premier League sides are intensifying efforts to secure the teenager, while Lille aims to retain their promising asset.

The club is negotiating a contract extension that could run until 2029, potentially boosting his transfer value above €50 million.

Chelsea have been closely following Bouaddi’s development, assessing the timing and terms of a potential move.

Meanwhile, Arsenal is attempting to extend his current loan arrangement, seeking to integrate the midfielder into their squad.

Bouaddi’s existing contract with Lille runs until mid-2027, giving the French club leverage in any negotiations.

Despite interest from Paris Saint-Germain, the young player appears inclined toward a Premier League move, viewing England as the next step in his career.

RMC Sport highlights that PSG remain a key contender, while Manchester United, Manchester City, and Liverpool have also shown interest.

Lille acknowledge that Bouaddi’s exceptional talent makes a transfer likely, but the club hopes a contract extension will maximise their financial return.

The combination of Premier League ambition and Lille’s negotiation strategy positions the 18-year-old at the centre of one of this summer’s most closely watched transfer sagas.