Arsenal have made initial contact with Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi's representatives as they aim to secure the 18-year-old French Under-21 international ahead of rivals like Chelsea and PSG.
The north London club, under transfer chief Andrea Berta, is pushing for a January deal to beat the competition, with reports indicating a potential €45 million (£39.4 million) bid on the table.
Chelsea are preparing a comparable financial offer, positioning them as Arsenal's primary Premier League threat for Bouaddi's signature. PSG, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool are also monitoring the situation closely, heightening the race for the promising talent who has become a Ligue 1 regular.
Lille recently extended Bouaddi's contract until
2029 and demand over €50 million (£43.8 million) for any transfer, refusing to sell at a discount despite interest. A summer move was initially expected, but Arsenal's proactive approach could accelerate proceedings.
Bouaddi addressed his future after signing the extension: "I have extended until 2029, and next year feels distant. I am concentrating on this season, as we have objectives to achieve. " He added, "As I mentioned [to] the president (Olivier Letard), at the end of the season, a decision will need to be made, and anything could happen. The future is uncertain. "
This pursuit aligns with Arsenal's recent focus on young prospects, including pre-contract deals for twin stars Edwin and Holger Quintero from Independiente del Valle, set to join in 2027. Manager Mikel Arteta has left the door open for January activity amid the club's squad-building efforts.
