The five favourites to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi

Ayyoub Bouaddi has placed himself in the transfer spotlight at this summer’s World Cup, with the Morocco midfielder attracting interest from European giants.

At just 18, the Lille starlet has shone on the big stage, helping Morocco through to a mouthwatering World Cup quarter-final against France.

As the transfer talk continues, we’ve ranked the five favourites to sign Bouaddi.

Real Madrid – 9/2

Real Madrid are understood to be monitoring Bouaddi closely following his standout displays this summer. Jose Mourinho’s rebuild at Real has started swiftly, with deals done for Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, Bernardo Silva and Marc Cucurella.

Big-name experience acquired, could the Spanish side now look for a future star? Los Blancos have arguably still not replaced Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, with Bouaddi emerging as one of the best up-and-coming midfielders in the game.

Manchester United – 9/2

Manchester United have made midfield the focus for the summer, but have so far failed to land their top targets.

Elliot Anderson’s move to Manchester City and Mateus Fernandes’ decision to sign for Spurs have left the Red Devils in search of alternatives. Based on this summer’s performances, Bouaddi already looks ready to make an immediate impact.

Paris Saint-Germain – 7/2

Paris Saint-Germain are keen to keep Bouaddi in Ligue 1, though Lille’s preference is an overseas sale. The French champions are hardly short on top-tier midfield talent, but Bouaddi’s performances have been noted.

Arsenal – 6/4

Arsenal are eager to add another midfielder to their squad to compete with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. Enquiries have been made for Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes, but Bouaddi is a decade younger than the Brazilian and would represent the long-term investment.

The Gunners have held talks with Bouaddi’s camp over a move to North London, though the teenager’s price is on the rise with his performances in North America.

Manchester City – 6/4

Manchester City are the joint-favourites for Bouaddi as things stand. Enzo Maresca’s priority this summer is restructuring his midfield, with Bernardo Silva departing and doubts over several first-team players.

Rodri also has only 12 months to run on his deal and is expected to leave in 2027. Bouaddi has been earmarked as an heir and could learn plenty from a season alongside the Ballon d’Or winner.

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