Mercato: Lille plans a smart move for Ayoub Bouaddi

Moroccan talent Ayoub Bouaddi is firmly on the radar of several European clubs eager to secure his signature during the summer transfer window.

The Lille midfielder stole the spotlight with the “Atlas Lions” during the last World Cup, earning widespread acclaim from observers across the football world.

The promising youngster recently switched his footballing nationality from French to Moroccan, a move that allowed him to represent the “Atlas Lions” on the global stage.

An innovative approach

According to transfer specialist website “Transfermarkt,” European giants Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal are all keen on landing Bouaddi this mercato.

Lille finds itself in a position of strength, with the Moroccan starlet under contract until 2029—meaning the club is under no pressure to sell this transfer window.

According to French media, “Les Dogues” are weighing several options, including a permanent transfer but with the guarantee of keeping Bouaddi on loan for another season.

This move aims to boost their chances ahead of their expected participation in the upcoming edition of the UEFA Champions League.

What has Bouaddi achieved with Lille?

The Moroccan international, who recently joined the national team, graduated from Lille's youth academy and was promoted to the first team in 2023 at just 16 years old.

He has made 96 appearances for the senior side across various competitions, providing 4 assists.

Bouaddi registered an assist in the UEFA Champions League, another in the UEFA Europa Conference League, and chipped in with two more in Ligue 1.

His current market value stands at €50 million on the global platform Transfermarkt—an increase of €40 million since 2024.

Manchester City have submitted an offer exceeding €100 million to Lille for Ayoub Bouaddi. Negotiations are ongoing, with City determined to secure the Moroccan midfielder. pic.twitter.com/haTRgF5TkQ

— Moroccan questions 🇲🇦 (@Moroccanquest) July 21, 2026

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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