Liverpool's chase for World Cup star Ayyoub Bouaddi fuels summer drama

18-year-old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has become the focal point of Liverpool's summer agenda, with the Reds reportedly already in talks to secure his signature. The Spaniard Andoni Iraola, who just arrived from Bournemouth after guiding them to a sixth‑place finish, faces a tough summer challenge as the club seeks to bolster its midfield.

Andoni Iraola joined Liverpool from Bournemouth, where he managed to massively over‑achieve and finish in sixth place. His appointment adds a new dimension to the Anfield outfit as they look to rebuild.

The Reds under‑performed last season, a dip that led to Arne Slot being sacked and the club only just managing to qualify for the Champions League. Anfield now hopes to reverse that trend with fresh signings.

Ayoub Bouaddi, the 18‑year‑old Moroccan who shone at the World Cup, has drawn interest from the Premier League's biggest clubs. "Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal are all in talks to sign Lille and World Cup sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi this summer, sources have told Football Insider," the outlet reported, adding that the race for the starlet remains open. The Man club also eyes the youngster as a long‑term solution.

Ever since Fabinho left Liverpool, the Premier League side have struggled to find a long‑term replacement, forcing Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot to experiment with options such as Alexis Mac Allister at number six. Slot’s gamble on Ryan Gravenberch paid off in 2024‑25 but faltered in the following campaign.

Bouaddi, a Moroccan international who featured in Ligue 1 from age 16, combines defensive grit with an eye‑for‑a‑pass that belies his age. While any deal would require a huge chunk of change, the Reds believe the investment would be worth every penny.