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Liverpool firm interest in Arsenal target Ayyoub Bouaddi after World Cup

James Mugisha·26-06-2026·3 min read
Liverpool firm interest in Arsenal target Ayyoub Bouaddi after World Cup

Liverpool have a "firm" interest in Arsenal’s £69 million teenage midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, the 18‑year‑old who lit up the World Cup for Morocco. The Reds’ scouting network reportedly rated the midfielder highly, and the club is now set to join a crowded list of suitors eyeing his signature.

Bouaddi’s World Cup performances have been the talk of the continent. The Moroccan play‑maker impressed with vision, composure and a knack for threading passes that left opponents grasping at air. His display has turned him from a promising Arsenal academy prospect into a bona‑fide headline act for Europe’s elite. That’s why clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, and even Real Madrid are circling his name.

How serious is Liverpool’s interest in Bouaddi?

According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool’s interest isn’t just a fleeting fancy – it’s “firm”. Staff inside Anfield have been monitoring the youngster closely since the tournament, and sources say the Reds see him as a long‑term solution in midfield. The club’s recent signing of Victor Munoz, snapped up from Newcastle’s radar, shows Jurgen Klopp’s side can act decisively when the right talent appears. But stealing Bouaddi away from Arsenal, who are reportedly preparing a bid of their own, will be a tougher nut to crack.

The Reds will have to weigh the £69 million price tag against their own budget constraints and squad balance. If they can outbid Arsenal, they’ll not only secure a player who could become a future captain but also make a statement to their rivals that Anfield remains a magnet for emerging African talent.

Moreover, the transfer saga adds another chapter to the growing narrative of African talent thriving in the Premier League – a trend that Ugandan youngsters watch closely, dreaming of following in the footsteps of the continent’s biggest names.

Who else is in the race for Bouaddi?

Arsenal remain the front‑runner, having nurtured the midfielder through their youth set‑up. Chelsea, Manchester City, and Real Madrid have also been linked, each club aware that securing a talent of Bouaddi’s calibre could pay dividends for years. The competition will likely drive the price up, potentially testing Liverpool’s financial flexibility.

Arsenal’s willingness to part with a player they value at £69 million shows the club is ready to cash in, perhaps to fund other areas of the squad. If Liverpool can match that figure and slip in a personal touch – perhaps a promise of regular first‑team minutes – they might just outmaneuver the London clubs.

Will Liverpool pull off the Bouaddi coup?

If Liverpool succeed, they’ll have added a world‑stage star to a midfield already buzzing with talent. For Ugandan fans, it’s a reason to cheer louder, and for local bettors, a fresh angle on the Premier League market. The Reds have a reputation for daring moves; this could be another chapter in that legacy.

The summer window remains open, and while Arsenal will fight to keep their prized prospect, the pull of Anfield may prove too strong for the 18‑year‑old.

What’s the next step for Bouaddi?

Negotiations are expected to heat up as clubs submit formal offers. Liverpool will need to act quickly, balancing their budget and squad needs, if they hope to seal the deal before the deadline.


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Source: Mirror

James Mugisha

James Mugisha

Contributor

James Mugisha is a contributor at ChampionSport.ug.

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