Arsenal have been informed that any attempt to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille will require an “extraordinary” transfer fee, according to Lille president Olivier Letang. The 18-year-old midfielder has emerged as a key target for the Gunners ahead of the summer transfer window, which opens on June 15th.
Bouaddi has quickly established himself as one of the most promising central midfielders in European football, progressing through Lille’s youth academy to become a regular in the first team. He has already amassed 96 appearances for Les Dogues, playing a significant role in their third-place finish in Ligue 1 and subsequent qualification for the Champions League.
The Times reports that Arsenal have added Bouaddi to their transfer wishlist, as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2026-27 season. BBC Sport adds that the club are specifically seeking a versatile midfielder capable of playing both as a defensive and attacking midfielder, alongside a right-back and a left winger.
However, Lille are determined to retain their prized asset, with Letang stating that a bid of €50million (£43.2m) would be insufficient. Speaking to RMC Sport, Letang emphasized the club’s desire to keep Bouaddi, stating, “When I say extraordinary it's something extraordinary. Here we are far from the amount that would allow us to let Ayyoub go.” He also highlighted the player’s contract situation, which runs until 2029, and his guaranteed starting role in the Champions League.
Bouaddi’s development will continue on the international stage this summer, having been named in Morocco’s 26-man squad for the World Cup, which begins on June 10th. Arteta has publicly urged the Arsenal board to invest heavily in the squad following their narrow defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final, stressing the need for ambition and smart recruitment to reach the next level. The Spaniard believes significant investment is required to build on their recent progress and compete for major honours.
This situation presents a significant challenge for Arsenal, who will need to significantly increase their offer to convince Lille to part ways with Bouaddi. His potential arrival would add further quality and depth to Arsenal’s midfield options.
