Manchester United are reportedly considering enlisting legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson to help convince Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi to join the club this summer. According to the Manchester Evening News, citing French reporter Abdellah Boulma, United have ramped up efforts to meet with the 18-year-old's representatives and are exploring ways to gain an edge over rival suitors Arsenal and Bayern Munich.
Bouaddi, a regular starter for Lille this season with 39 appearances across all competitions, is under contract until June 2029. The French club is said to value the France Under-21 international at around €50 million (£43 million). United's potential use of Ferguson in negotiations underscores the high regard in which they hold the teenager, having employed a similar tactic during an unsuccessful attempt to sign Jude Bellingham in 2020.
The pursuit comes amid a broader search for midfield reinforcements at Old Trafford. The club had previously identified Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson as a primary target but have been deterred by a potential £125 million price tag, with Manchester City now considered favourites for that signature. Bouaddi represents a different profile: a technically gifted, press-resistant player praised for his composure and link-up play, though he is seen as a prospect requiring further development rather than a ready-made Premier League star.
Arsenal have also conducted extensive groundwork on a potential move for Bouaddi, according to sources cited in the report, setting the stage for a potential bidding war. Lille have a renowned track record for developing elite talent, having previously produced Eden Hazard, Benjamin Pavard, and current United defender Leny Yoro. Bouaddi has gained valuable experience this season, including in the Europa League, where Lille were eliminated by Aston Villa in the round of 16.
Internally, some voices suggest United might be better served prioritising a move for a more established Premier League performer. The club retains an agreement on personal terms with Brighton's Carlos Baleba from last summer, and his anticipated fee has reportedly dropped from £100 million to around £70 million following a less impressive campaign. However, United's hierarchy reportedly still believes the 22-year-old can become an elite player.
The potential involvement of Sir Alex Ferguson, who maintains a significant ambassadorial role at the club, highlights United's determination to secure one of Europe's most promising young midfielders. His legendary status and personal touch could be a decisive factor in a competitive market. For Bouaddi, a move would represent a monumental step, with the promise of following in the footsteps of his former teammate Yoro, though the defender has himself been linked with a potential swap deal to Barcelona this summer.
