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Arsenal transfer target Ayyoub Bouaddi
Arsenal transfer target Ayyoub Bouaddi

Arsenal have taken action to get ahead of Paris Saint-Germain in the race for Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi.

The 18-year-old’s development at the Ligue 1 side has seen a few top clubs, including Arsenal and PSG, take notice.

Bouaddi graduated from Lille’s academy and made his way into their first team in 2023.

He’s played 96 matches so far, of which 3,153 minutes in 42 matches are from this season.

Arsenal and PSG set for battle 

The Premier League winners have followed the midfielder for a while and have been in contact with his entourage since January 2025.

That’s according to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, who covers Arsenal and PSG interest in his column for Sky Sport CH.

There’s strong interest from Luis Enrique’s side and the midfielder has given preference to the Paris club.

Meanwhile, the Gunners are actively pursuing him and are ‘using every argument’ to convince the youngster to join them. Arsenal have informed both Ayyoub Bouaddi and his camp that he will have an important role under Mikel Arteta.

Tavolieri claims Arsenal have carried out fresh talks recently, and the France-born Morocco international ‘has indicated his interest in a potential move to’ the Emirates.

He’s with his national team at the World Cup and after their campaign, the north London club have planned more meetings. There are expectations for Arteta to be more involved in these meetings.

Gunners have already made offer 

Last week, Sport Witness relayed news that Lille have rejected a €60m Arsenal offer.

Sacha Tavolieri now makes no mention of their offer but claims Lille are clear he won’t leave for less than €70m.

Arsenal have an excellent relationship with the French club’s president, Olivier Létang, and believe this will help them close a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi.

PSG are Lille’s direct rivals in the league. Therefore, if Arsenal meet Lille’s demand, Létang would favour selling the player to them.

There’s unlikely to be any progress until after the World Cup and the coming weeks would be key for this operation.

The midfielder’s contract lasts until 2029, and Transfermarkt value him at €50m. His value has increased by €22m since June 2025.

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