Arsenal have reportedly opened talks to sign Lille wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi this summer.
The 18-year-old midfielder was promoted to Lille’s first team in the summer of 2023 and has since established himself as a regular starter for the French side.
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Bouaddi made 42 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 season, starting 28 of those matches.
The highly-rated youngster has been on the radar of several European giants for a number of years.
With the summer transfer window approaching, interest in Bouaddi is expected to intensify.
Arsenal, Liverpool and PSG have all been heavily linked with a move for the midfielder in recent days.
Now, a major update has emerged regarding his future.
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Arsenal in touch with Bouaddi’s representatives
According to the reliable Gary Jacob of The Times, Arsenal have begun talks over a potential deal for Bouaddi.
It is understood the Lille star is among Mikel Arteta’s priority targets ahead of next season.
Although no formal offer has been submitted to Lille at this stage, the Gunners are already in discussions with the player’s representatives.
Arsenal are expected to face strong competition for Bouaddi’s signature, with both PSG and Chelsea also keen on securing his services.
The teenager’s current contract with Lille runs until the summer of 2029.
What happens next?
Arsenal are set to step up their plans as the summer transfer window approaches, with the club continuing to hold internal discussions over potential targets. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta are both believed to be actively assessing several options as preparations for next season continue behind the scenes.
The Gunners are expected to be among the busiest Premier League clubs this summer, with several positions under review. Any move will ultimately depend on availability, financial conditions and how Arsenal prioritise their targets during the transfer window.
The bigger picture
Arsenal’s recruitment team continues to focus on players who fit the club’s long-term strategy under Mikel Arteta. Technical quality, tactical intelligence and versatility remain key attributes as the club assesses potential additions ahead of the new campaign.
The club has consistently looked to add players capable of improving both the starting XI and overall squad depth, particularly with the demands of competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Arsenal are expected to strengthen multiple areas of the squad this summer and continue to monitor opportunities across Europe and South America.
Arsenal are expected to make several important decisions regarding the composition of the squad this summer. While strengthening key areas remains a priority, the club could also consider offers for certain players if it helps fund new arrivals and maintain financial flexibility.
Securing the futures of key players remains just as important as making new signings. Arsenal have worked hard to build one of the strongest squads in Europe, and maintaining stability within the group will be crucial as the club looks to continue competing for major honours.
Our View
If the reports are accurate, this would appear to be a move that makes sense for Arsenal. The club are expected to strengthen the squad’s midfield department during the summer, and the player’s profile seems to align with the type of recruitment strategy Mikel Arteta has favoured in recent years. Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi is currently viewed as one of the most talented young midfielders in Europe, so Arsenal are likely to face stiff competition for the player’s services.
Whether Arsenal decide to advance their interest in the 18-year-old remains to be seen, but it is easy to understand why the player is being linked with a move to North London this summer.
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