Psg set on signing 18-year-old lille midfielder for €70m
With the transfer window approaching, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is actively scouting Ligue 1 talent to bolster their squad, and the club’s latest target may come as no surprise. At just 18 years old, Ayyoub Bouaddi has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in French football, and PSG is among the elite clubs vying to secure his signature. The young Moroccan international, who has already made three appearances for his national team, is currently under contract with Lille until 2029. However, extracting him from the club won’t come cheap.
According to insider reports, Lille has set a valuation of €70 million for Bouaddi, a figure that PSG is reportedly willing to meet to secure his transfer. While the Parisians have expressed strong interest, they are not alone in the race. Premier League side Arsenal has also identified the teenager as a key target, actively pursuing his signature since January 2025 to reinforce their midfield. Though Bouaddi has hinted at a preference for Paris, his openness to moves abroad suggests he remains flexible about his future.
Lille demands a premium price for Bouaddi
Lille’s president Olivier Létang has made it clear that Bouaddi’s departure is not a given. The club has extended the midfielder’s contract until 2029 and remains committed to retaining him. However, Létang did not rule out a transfer if an “extraordinary” offer materializes. “We’ve had regular discussions with Ayyoub, and our goal is to keep him,” he stated. “But if something truly exceptional comes up, we’ll consider letting him go. Anything below €50 million simply won’t suffice.” The €70 million price tag proposed by Lille appears to be the threshold PSG is prepared to meet, though Arsenal’s involvement adds complexity to the negotiation.
A high-stakes battle for a rising star
Bouaddi’s rise has been meteoric. At 18, he has already earned international recognition with Morocco and is viewed as one of the most promising talents in European football. Clubs across Europe are monitoring his progress closely, but PSG and Arsenal stand out as the most determined suitors. While PSG may hold a slight edge due to their financial resources and Ligue 1 connections, Arsenal’s sustained interest—including regular contact with the player and his representatives—demonstrates their seriousness.
The outcome of this transfer saga will hinge on Lille’s willingness to part with their prized asset, Bouaddi’s own preferences, and the competing offers on the table. With €70 million on the table, PSG is poised to make a bold move, but Arsenal’s persistence could complicate their plans. One thing is certain: this transfer will not be decided lightly.
