Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Lille FC midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi with Liverpool also keen. 

The Gunners look set to spend in the summer transfer window as they have appointed a new sporting director in the form of Andrea Berta.

They are planning to sign a striker after being criticised all season for not adding a number nine. They had made a bid for Ollie Watkins, but it was rejected by Aston Villa.

Mikel Arteta also looks likely to add a midfielder and a winger in order to give himself more depth and improve his squad to try and win the Premier League next season.

As a part of their transfer plans, Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has emerged as a target for the Gunners. The 17-year-old has become a regular in Lille’s starting XI, making 32 appearances for the French side this season.

He plays as a holding midfielder and has provided two assists for Lille as he likes to attack at times. According to TBR Football, several Premier League clubs are scouting the 17-year-old who has “glowing” reports.

The named teams include Arsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Manchester United, Manchester City and Brighton, all of which are eyeing up a move for the teenager.

His contract is due to expire in the summer of 2027, so Lille could decide to cash in this year before it gets too close to expiry.

Arsenal looking to add a centre-midfielder

Not only have the Gunners been linked to Bouaddi, they have reportedly identified Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes as a transfer target for the summer.

The Brazilian midfielder has previously been priced at over £100 million by Newcastle, but the Gunners are hoping to tempt the Magpies with an impressive offer.

Guimaraes has made 28 appearances in the Premier League this season, scoring three goals and providing six assists for Eddie Howe’s team, he is also wanted by Man City according to reports.

Click here to see Arsenal’s first team squad for the 2024/25 season.