Liverpool has 'firm' transfer plan to rival Arsenal for $91M World Cup breakout star
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Liverpool have been linked with a move for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who has been in fine form for Morocco at the World Cup, with the Reds reportedly rivalling Arsenal for the starletAyyoub Bouaddi of Morocco(Image: Ezra Shaw - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)Liverpool have once again been linked with a move for Lille sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi this summer. The teenage midfielder continues to impress for Morocco at this summer's World Cup, fuelling further speculation about his future.Reports have been circulating that Bouaddi could be on his way out during this summer's transfer window, with tentative suggestions that Liverpool could be amongst the frontrunners to secure the gifted midfielder's services.A fresh development regarding the 18-year-old's future has now emerged, with Liverpool directly in the frame.
According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool have a "firm" interest in signing Bouaddi, with the midfielder held in high regard by those within the club. However, the Reds will face stiff competition from a number of clubs vying for the highly-coveted youngster.The report indicates that Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid have all been linked with Bouaddi, who is widely regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in world football.Liverpool have already pipped one Premier League rival to a signing this summer, with the Reds wrapping up a deal for Victor Munoz, who had also been targeted by Newcastle.Stealing a march on their rivals for Bouaddi will prove considerably more challenging, however.
Arsenal are reported to have held internal discussions about making a formal bid for the talented starlet.Bouaddi's displays at the World Cup will undoubtedly spark further discussions amongst Europe's elite clubs, with supporters thus far impressed by his composure and physicality at such a young age. He was especially notable in the draw with Brazil and the victory over Scotland.Arsenal have maintained a longstanding interest in Bouaddi, meaning Liverpool will face a challenge if they hope to overtake their Premier League rivals in the race to secure the midfielder this summer.A separate report in The Athletic has suggested that Lille are intent on retaining Bouaddi, though he is believed to be valued at approximately $91 million (£69m) this summer.Yan Diomande has been linked with Liverpool(Image: Michael Miller/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)The report also suggests that Bouaddi, should he depart Lille, would prefer to join a club where he would feature regularly in central midfield.This could provide Liverpool with an advantage, given some of the other clubs reportedly pursuing the teenager may struggle to guarantee those opportunities.Arsenal have Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Martin Zubimendi as established figures in the midfield position where Bouaddi would ordinarily operate.Man City are reportedly close to completing the signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.