Rabat – Lille president Olivier Létang has reaffirmed the club’s determination to keep Moroccan rising star Ayyoub Bouaddi, insisting there is a “very high chance” the 18-year-old will remain at the French club despite growing interest from Europe’s elite following his impressive 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Létang stressed that Lille is under no pressure to sell the highly-rated midfielder, whose contract runs until June 2029 after signing an extension last December.
Prioritizing Bouaddi’s development
While refusing to discuss Bouaddi’s valuation, Létang acknowledged that only a handful of clubs are financially capable of signing the Moroccan international.
“I have never spoken about figures, and I won’t start today because I’m not the one who sets them,” Létang said. “There are very few clubs capable of signing a player of Bouaddi’s quality at just 18 years old, but what matters most is the overall project, his development path, and finding the best environment for him to continue growing.”
Under contract until 2029
The Lille president revealed that he met Bouaddi after the player’s return from the 2026 FIFA World Cup and believes the midfielder is content with the club.
“We extended his contract in December, so he is tied to us until 2029,” Létang explained. “He’s happy here. I can’t reveal what we discussed after the World Cup, but I’m convinced there is a very high probability that he will stay with us.”
He admitted that some circumstances could still lead to a transfer but maintained that Bouaddi is well-positioned to spend another season in Ligue 1.
Transfer talks declined
Létang also disclosed that Lille has deliberately avoided opening negotiations with clubs capable of meeting Bouaddi’s asking price.
“So far, I haven’t entered into any negotiations because I refused to engage in discussions with clubs that could afford his transfer,” he said. “There’s no reason to rush. We’re very calm, and Ayyoub is also calm and happy here. That reflects the strength and stability of our club. We’ll reassess the situation in the coming weeks.”
Open to scenario’s
While confident that Bouaddi will stay, Létang acknowledged that Lille must remain prepared for every possible outcome.
“We have to be ready for all scenarios,” he concluded. “I still believe there’s a very good chance he’ll remain with us this season, but if he eventually leaves, we must be prepared and respond appropriately.”
Bouaddi has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after young midfielders after his standout performances for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, attracting interest from several top clubs across the continent.
