Lille president Olivier Letang has stated that only a “very few clubs” possess the financial capability to secure the transfer of midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, dismissing reports of an €80million-€100million (£68.5m-£85.7m) price tag. The comments came as interest mounts from several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City.
Bouaddi has rapidly emerged as a prominent talent since debuting for Lille in 2023, accumulating 96 appearances for the Ligue 1 side. His performances at the recent World Cup, where he played a key role in Morocco’s run to the quarter-finals, have further elevated his profile. The 18-year-old’s form has reportedly prompted Arsenal to initiate discussions with Lille regarding a potential summer move, as reported by The Times.
Sky Sports understands that Manchester United are also closely monitoring the situation, while talkSPORT claims Chelsea remain interested in acquiring the player. Manchester City have also been linked, with The Athletic reporting a potential strategy of signing Bouaddi and immediately loaning him back to Lille for the 2026-27 season. Letang emphasized Bouaddi’s current quality and potential for growth, asserting he is “already one of the best midfielders in the world.”
Addressing the reported valuation, Letang refuted claims of a fixed price range, suggesting Lille will consider recent high-profile transfers like Elliot Anderson’s move to Manchester City for €135million (£116m) and Sandro Tonali’s impending transfer to Tottenham Hotspur for €115million (£100m) when determining Bouaddi’s worth. He highlighted the age and developmental potential of Bouaddi, contrasting him with Anderson and Tonali, who are 23 and 26 respectively. Letang had previously indicated in June that an “extraordinary” offer would be required to convince Lille to part ways with Bouaddi, who is currently under contract at the Stade Pierre Mauroy until 2029.
