Manchester United and Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing 18-year-old French midfield sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi from Ligue 1 club LOSC Lille next year.

According to a report by Caught Offside, Ayyoub Bouaddi is the subject of interest of Manchester United. The Red Devils are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a versatile midfielder next year. So, the 18-year-old LOSC Lille wonderkid has emerged as a target, with Christopher Vivell a “big fan” of the highly-rated prospect.

The latest update has revealed that the Premier League bigwigs have held internal discussions ahead of a possible move next year. However, Manchester United will not be alone in the race to sign Bouaddi from LOSC Lille, as Arsenal and “others from outside the Premier League” will also attempt to secure his services.

The rise and rise of Ayyoub Bouaddi

Ayyoub Bouaddi has continued the rich French tradition of producing several prodigies every year, becoming the latest to rise in prominence in his homeland. The Senlis native has spent his formative years thus far in France, starting his youth career at AFC Creil before graduating from the youth division at LOSC Lille.

The 18-year-old midfield sensation has made over 50 appearances thus far for Lille, chipping in with three assists. Meanwhile, Bouaddi’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several European bigwigs. Arsenal and Manchester United are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

Premier League bound soon?

Manchester United’s interest in Ayyoub Bouaddi is understandable. The Red Devils are scouring the market for a versatile midfielder, with the lack of quality in the middle of the park holding them back in the last few years. Additionally, Kobbie Mainoo is unsettled at Manchester United due to a lack of game time. So, the LOSC Lille wonderkid is a viable target, with the club having internal discussions for a move.

As for Arsenal, the Gunners have a stacked midfield unit after signing multiple midfielders in the summer transfer window. However, Christian Norgaard is a short-term solution due to his advancing age, and Mikel Merino will turn 30 next year. So, Bouaddi is an option worth considering for Arsenal.

Meanwhile, recent reports have claimed that the Ligue 1 giants are bracing themselves for incoming offers for the 18-year-old French midfield sensation. With LOSC Lille aware of the growing interest, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for Bouaddi.