Arsenal will look to move for Lille’s teenage starlet Ayyoub Bouaddi this summer, as they seek an injection of youth for their midfield.
The final stretch of the 2025/26 season is set to be one of the most decisive in recent memory for the Gunners
Despite Sunday’s Carabao Cup final loss, Mikel Arteta’s side sit nine points clear atop the Premier League, having reached the quarter-finals of both the FA Cup and Champions League.
Ahead of an enthralling special season finale, the club are taking a proactive approach to cultivating future success on and off the pitch.
Bouaddi subject to interest from European giants
According to TeamTalk, Ayyoub Bouaddi is one of the players being most closely monitored by Arsenal ahead of the summer window.
The recruitment team, headed up by sporting director Andrea Berta, are currently doing extensive groundwork ahead of a swoop for the 18-year-old talent.
Arsenal had also been keeping tabs on the French under-21 international before his breakout season for Lille.
However, it appears that the club will have to contend with several other clubs for Bouaddi’s signature. Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea are reportedly all keen on the Lille midfielder, who would represent a serious coup.
Bouaddi has made 36 appearances for Lille this season, including 10 in the Europa League before their recent exit to Aston Villa.
While Arsenal played Manchester City, the club’s scouts were in attendance for Lille’s 2-1 victory over Marseille. Bouaddi, who played 90 minutes in the win, currently has his club and international future up in the air, as he is eligible to represent both France and Morocco.
Arsenal prioritise summer exits after spending spree
Despite growing links with potential targets, Arsenal’s main objective for the summer will be to rebalance their squad in the wake of a period of heavy expenditure.
In February, David Ornstein revealed a glimpse of these plans.
“After signing Martin Zubimendi, who turned 27 this week, and Norgaard, 32 next month, in the summer, they may look to introduce a younger profile into their midfield.
“Sales will also be a priority: after the huge expenditure of last summer, they will need to start recouping cash through the market if they are to remain compliant with financial rules.”
With the futures of Ben White, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard looking increasingly uncertain, Mikel Arteta will hope to recoup a significant amount to strengthen his squad for next season.