Liverpool hold talks for Morocco wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi

Liverpool have been credited with an interest in Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Bouaddi made 30 Ligue 1 appearances last term, helping Lille qualify for the Champions League.

The 18-year-old starred in Morocco’s 1-1 draw with Brazil in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener on Saturday.

Liverpool have now held talks with Bouaddi’s representatives, but face competition from Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Romano said on his YouTube channel: “Lille knows very well that top clubs will be coming for Bouaddi, because even before the World Cup, some of the biggest clubs started some conversations with his agents.

“I can tell you that between January and now, for sure, he’s been approached by Paris Saint-Germain. Paris Saint-Germain love Bouaddi, but they are not so busy with midfielders on the market, so that’s a point.

“Then we have to mention also that Liverpool and Arsenal have had meetings with the agents of the player.”

Bouaddi signed a contract extension in December, but Lille are ready to sell him for €70 million (£60m).

The former France youth international’s intelligent positioning and tackling ability would be a good addition to Liverpool’s midfield.

His progressive passing still needs improvement, although that should improve with experience.

A move for Bouaddi would cast further doubt on the futures of Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones. They have two years left on their contracts and have been linked with moves elsewhere.

Liverpool are also reportedly interested in Monaco’s Lamine Camara as they seek to bolster their midfield this summer.