Arsenal lead £39m Ayyoub Bouaddi transfer race ahead of Chelsea and PSG

Arsenal accelerate transfer talks for Ayyoub Bouaddi as Premier League rivals Chelsea and PSG circle for the French midfield prodigy.

Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Ayyoub Bouaddi, accelerating transfer talks in a bid to outpace Chelsea and Paris Saint‑Germain in the race for Lille’s highly rated 18‑year‑old midfielder. The Gunners’ decisive move underlines their intent to secure one of France’s brightest prospects before rivals can make their play.

According to RMC Sport, Arsenal are intensifying their efforts to secure Bouaddi, with sporting director Andrea Berta already in touch with the midfielder’s camp.

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The North London club has initiatepd formal talks with Bouaddi’s representatives, with Berta personally steering the negotiations. His hands-on involvement highlights Arsenal’s strong intent to land one of France’s brightest young midfield talents in the upcoming January transfer window.

Bouaddi’s rapid rise has set him apart in Ligue 1. Since making his debut at just 16, he has already collected 72 senior appearances for Lille — an extraordinary total for his age — drawing widespread interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.

Chelsea’s Interest Adds Pressure to the Deal

Chelsea, guided by manager Enzo Maresca, continue to target elite young talents across the world, and Bouaddi fits their recruitment blueprint perfectly. Yet Arsenal’s swift engagement could give them a crucial advantage.

The proposed £39 million (€45m) fee reflects Lille’s strong stance. Bouaddi has become central to their midfield structure, making him a difficult player for the French side to part with.

Bouaddi’s Profile: A Future Midfield Leader

• Age: 18
• Club: Lille OSC
• Position: Central / Defensive Midfielder
• Senior Appearances: 72
• International: France U21 regular

France U21 coach Gérald Baticle has labelled Bouaddi “one of the future jewels of French football,” praising his intelligence, control, and calmness in possession. His ability to dictate tempo aligns perfectly with Mikel Arteta’s vision for Arsenal’s evolving midfield.

What Bouaddi’s Arrival Would Mean for Arsenal

If Arsenal succeed in securing Bouaddi, he would join a youthful core already featuring Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Ethan Nwaneri, and Gabriel Martinelli. His profile adds depth, control, and long-term stability — particularly valuable with Arsenal competing on multiple fronts.

Moreover, Bouaddi’s development under Arteta could elevate him further, offering the Gunners a long-term midfield anchor.

Although Arsenal are pushing hard, Chelsea remain interested and could still challenge the deal. PSG are also monitoring developments and may attempt a late bid. Even so, Arsenal’s early talks demonstrate their intent to move decisively.

The chase for Ayyoub Bouaddi is intensifying, with Arsenal currently leading the £39 million race. Securing the French prodigy would mark a significant statement for the club’s long-term planning — especially with Chelsea and PSG preparing potential counter-moves as the January window edges closer.

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