Lille’s Ayyoub Bouadi in action during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 round of 16 first leg match between Borussia Dortmund and LOSC Lille on March 4, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Daniel Kopacz/Getty Images)
As 2025 draws to a close, Lille’s midfield treasure Ayyoub Bouadi is the hottest topic in the transfer market.
A person close to the situation said that not only Chelsea and Manchester United, but almost every other European powerhouse are in the hunt for this “generational talent.” catch off side.
Multiple Premier League clubs keen to sign Ayyoub Bouadi
Bouadi is thought to be a perfect fit in Ruben Amorim’s system. United could move quickly as scouts have closely tracked him for months and see him as a “key piece” in the post-Casemilo era.
Chelsea remain true to their constant search for young stars. The Blues could knock on Lille’s door in January with a bid of between 45 and 50 million euros. They hope to sign him permanently and then loan him out to sister club Strasbourg to continue his development.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are also interested in the player. It’s no secret that Mikel Arteta loves technically gifted players. The Gunners have already made first contact with Bouadi’s team and are laying the foundations for a summer move.
Liverpool are also monitoring Bouadi’s movements. They see Bouadi as a player who will be active for the next 10 years.
Europe’s top club signs Bouadi
In Europe, PSG are determined not to let France’s brightest talent slip away and will use family ties and Ligue 1 experience to lure him to Paris.
Bouadi’s name tops scouting reports across La Liga and Serie A. Real Madrid in particular would like to sign him to build up their French core alongside Camavinga and Choameni.
Lille recently made a smart move and extended Bouadi’s contract until 2029. This move significantly strengthened their negotiating position. The French club are currently expecting at least 60 million euros for the midfield genius.
The midfielder will need to choose his next destination carefully. He should focus on his development and regular game time. There is no point in joining a big club just to sit on the bench. It remains to be seen where he will end up.

