TBR Football can reveal that Arsenal and Liverpool are firmly in the mix alongside other Premier League sides to launch a 2026 move for Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, one of the most talked-about young talents in world football.

Despite Bouaddi being just 18, Arsenal have been tracking him since before he made his first-team debut at 16.

TBR Football revealed last year that Arsenal were keen, while we also confirmed earlier this year that Liverpool’s scouts were left impressed by the player.

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Indeed, almost every major club in Europe is on Bouaddi’s trail. He is a holding midfielder, but having only turned 18 in October, 2026 is the first time he is available to Premier League clubs.

Photo by Julian Finney – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

Arsenal and Liverpool aside, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham are all monitoring him regularly.

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and RB Leipzig are also paying close attention, particularly heading into the New Year, as sources with knowledge of Bouaddi’s situation have confirmed to TBR Football that Lille are preparing for the likely departure of their prized asset.

Lille, who have produced remarkable players including Eden Hazard and Leny Yoro,...