Liverpool, Arsenal in Talks for Moroccan Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, Says Report
Manchester-based transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on Tuesday that Liverpool and Arsenal are in advanced talks to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi, a 19-year-old Moroccan midfielder whose performances for his club and national team have drawn widespread attention. The player, currently with Wydad Casablanca, is described as a “high-potential” target by multiple European clubs, with both English Premier League teams vying for his services.
Who Is Ayyoub Bouaddi?
Bouaddi, born on April 12, 2005, in Casablanca, Morocco, has been a standout for Wydad Casablanca, where he made 28 appearances in the 2023-24 season, scoring five goals and providing four assists. His technical skills, vision, and composure on the ball have earned comparisons to Spanish midfielder Sergio Busquets, according to The Guardian. The 19-year-old also made his debut for the Moroccan national team in a 2024 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Africa, where he showcased his ability to control midfield duels.
Why Are Liverpool and Arsenal Targeting Him?
According to Romano, Liverpool’s interest stems from a need to strengthen their midfield following the departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho. The Reds are reportedly evaluating young talents to replace aging stars, with Bouaddi seen as a “long-term project” by their scouting team. Meanwhile, Arsenal has been linked with the midfielder due to his versatility, which could complement the Gunners’ attacking style. A source close to the club told BBC Sport that Bouaddi’s “technical flair and awareness” align with Mikel Arteta’s vision for the squad.
What’s the Current Status of the Talks?
Wydat Casablanca has not officially commented on the transfer rumors, but a club representative told Goal.com that they are “aware of the interest” and will “evaluate all options” once the transfer window opens. Bouaddi’s agent, however, emphasized that the player is “focused on his current club and national team commitments” and has no immediate plans to move.
Despite this, Romano reported that both Liverpool and Arsenal have submitted formal inquiries, with Wydad seeking a fee in the range of €30 million to €40 million. The Moroccan federation has also been involved in discussions, as Bouaddi’s development is seen as critical to Morocco’s long-term success in international competitions.
How Does This Compare to Previous Transfers?
Bouaddi’s case mirrors the 2022 signing of Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi by Inter Milan, where the La Liga club secured the defender for €40 million after a similar buildup of interest. However, unlike Hakimi, Bouaddi has yet to play in a top European league, which could affect his valuation. Analysts at Sporting News noted that his potential is “high, but unproven” in a competitive environment, making the deal riskier for the clubs involved.
What Happens Next?
The transfer window is set to open on June 14, and both Liverpool and Arsenal are expected to intensify their efforts. Wydad Casablanca has indicated it will not rush a decision, with president Khalid El-Amin stating that the club will “only sell if the offer meets our expectations.” Meanwhile, Bouaddi’s performance in Morocco’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers could influence the negotiations, as a strong showing might elevate his market value.
For now, the race for Bouaddi remains a high-stakes game of patience and strategy, with European football’s elite watching closely as the 19-year-old continues to develop on the international stage.