Liverpool 'in transfer talks' with 18-year-old World Cup star who dominated Brazil
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Liverpool has reportedly made contact with the representatives of 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who is currently starring for Morocco at the 2026 World CupAyyoub Bouaddi has been linked with Liverpool after his impressive display against Brazil(Image: Getty Images)Liverpool could have the opportunity to secure the signature of one of this summer's World Cup revelations. Ayyoub Bouaddi is currently turning heads for Morocco at the tournament, which is being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.The Reds are yet to complete their first signing of the transfer window, but have already been linked with a number of potential targets.
Bouaddi is among the names that have emerged on the transfer rumor mill over recent days.Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Liverpool, along with Arsenal, have had "direct contact" and are in talks with Bouaddi's representatives regarding a potential summer move.Further reports have suggested that Paris Saint-Germain may also be eyeing the 18-year-old midfielder, who is currently contracted to Lille until the summer of 2028.Liverpool is widely expected to prioritise strengthening its attacking options this summer, though bolstering its midfield ranks would also appear to be a prudent course of action, reports the Liverpool Echo.Andoni Iraola faces a considerable task in guiding Liverpool back to challenging for major silverware next season, in what will be his debut campaign at the helm following his appointment to replace Arne Slot earlier this month.Ayyoub Bouaddi impressed for Morocco against Brazil in the World Cup. (Image: MB Media/Getty Images)Bouaddi has featured in just one World Cup fixture to date, delivering a commanding display for Morocco as they secured a 1-1 draw with Brazil on Saturday in New Jersey.Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi shed light on his reasoning behind handing Bouaddi a starting berth in the country's World Cup opener."It was not a risk to play him [Bouaddi] just because he's 18," Ouahbi told reporters, via ESPN."I only look at players' performance, not the age of the player.
He could be 35, and if he plays well, he'll play, or 17.Get Liverpool's new 2026/27 home kitThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreLiverpool FC have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27, inspired by iconic adidas strip worn during the club's 1989/90 title-winning campaign."I'm not the guy to be afraid of playing youngsters, we were sure and certain that he'd have a big match, and so it wasn't a risk at all - it wasn't the kind of match for taking risks against Brazil."Maybe it's because he's a new player that everyone's got so excited, it was his first match at international level, an important match at his young age, but he's not short of experience."The teenager occupied the holding midfielder position for his nation, and would undoubtedly have attracted interest from Europe's elite clubs following his display.Andoni Iraola will need to strengthen his midfield at Liverpool(Image: Getty)The CIES Football Observatory presently estimates Bouaddi's worth at up to €59 million ($68M), while reports have indicated that Lille are seeking a fee nearer to €70 million ($81M).Liverpool currently possesses Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, Florian Wirtz and Trey Nyoni amongst its midfield ranks, while it will also see Harvey Elliott return after his loan spell at Aston Villa.Bouaddi would undoubtedly bring greater defensive solidity to Liverpool's midfield should he make the move to Anfield — something that could prove crucial as the Reds prepare for another demanding campaign across four competitions.