Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Arsenal are locked in a fierce competition to sign Lille’s rising star Ayyoub Bouaddi, a highly promising 18-year-old midfielder whose contract expires in 2029. The Ligue 1 outfit has set a hefty price tag of €70 million to part ways with the Moroccan international, who has already earned three senior caps for his national team.

Lille’s president Olivier Létang has repeatedly emphasized his desire to retain Bouaddi, insisting that only an extraordinary offer would justify his departure. During a recent interview, he stated, “We’ve had regular talks with Ayyoub, and our goal is to keep him. However, if an exceptional financial proposal comes in, we might reconsider. Anything under €50 million isn’t enough—it’s far from the amount that would make us let him go.”

Despite Lille’s reluctance, PSG has emerged as a serious contender. The French giants see Bouaddi as a key long-term asset and are prepared to meet Lille’s valuation with a substantial transfer bid. Meanwhile, Arsenal has also made the young midfielder a top priority, engaging in continuous discussions with both Bouaddi and his representatives since January 2025.

While Bouaddi has expressed a preference for Paris, he has not ruled out a move to England. The competition between the two clubs is intensifying, with both sides working hard to sway the teenager and his family. His potential arrival could significantly strengthen either squad’s midfield for years to come.