Liverpool are continuing to shape their squad ahead of Andoni Iraola’s first full season at Anfield.
The Reds are expected to strengthen several areas of the team this summer as they look to challenge for major honours once again.
Midfield remains one of the positions Liverpool are keen to improve. However, they are not alone in that search.
Arsenal are also pushing to add more quality in the middle of the park after winning the Premier League title and reaching the Champions League final.
The Gunners have already identified several young talents capable of becoming key figures in Mikel Arteta’s project. One of those players has also emerged as a target for Liverpool.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool have now made contact over a deal for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.
The 18-year-old has become one of the most talked-about young players at the World Cup after impressing for Morocco in their 1-1 draw against Brazil. His performances have only increased interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Arsenal have tracked Bouaddi for months and Andrea Berta has already held talks with the player’s representatives as the North London club look to move ahead of the competition.
However, Liverpool are now firmly in the race. The Reds have also held discussions with Bouaddi’s camp as they assess a possible move for the teenager. Paris Saint-Germain are another club monitoring the situation closely.
The French champions are believed to be huge admirers of the midfielder and could become serious contenders for his signature in the coming weeks. Lille are fully aware of the growing interest.
The Ligue 1 side handed Bouaddi a new contract in December. They wanted to strengthen their position before what they expected would become a major transfer battle.
The midfielder remains focused on Morocco’s campaign, but clubs across Europe continue to monitor his situation closely.
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