Rabat – Real Madrid have added Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi to their list of possible summer targets as the Spanish club looks to strengthen its midfield with young talent.
According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Madrid view the Lille player as a possible alternative if they are unable to complete a deal for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
The Spanish giants have not made a formal offer for Bouaddi, and negotiations with Lille have not reached an advanced stage.
However, the club’s continued monitoring reflects the growing interest surrounding one of Europe’s most promising young midfielders.
World Cup display raises Bouaddi’s profile
Bouaddi attracted further international attention with an impressive performance in Morocco’s 1-1 draw against Brazil in their opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Making his first appearance in the competition, the 18-year-old played with confidence and helped Morocco control large parts of the midfield battle.
He recorded 86 touches and completed more than 90% of his passes, while also showing strength in duels and calmness under pressure.
His performance against experienced Brazilian players strengthened his reputation as a midfielder capable of competing at the highest level.
Real Madrid already know Bouaddi from Lille’s 1-0 Champions League victory over the Spanish club in October 2024.
Bouaddi made his first start in the competition on his 17th birthday and delivered a composed performance as Lille ended Madrid’s long unbeaten run in European football.
Since then, he has become an important member of Lille’s first team and has shown an ability to operate in several midfield roles.
His passing, physical strength, positioning, and tactical discipline have made him attractive to clubs looking for a long-term midfield option.
Lille in strong negotiating position
Lille reportedly value Bouaddi at around $70 million following the rise in interest from leading European clubs.
The French side are under no immediate pressure to sell after extending the player’s contract until June 2029.
That agreement gives Lille control over any negotiations and allows the club to demand a major fee for the young international.
Real Madrid are not the only team following Bouaddi. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked with the midfielder.
Reports suggest Arsenal have already held discussions over a possible move, although no transfer has been agreed.
Enzo Fernandez is believed to remain one of Real Madrid’s main midfield targets, but Chelsea’s high valuation could make an agreement difficult.
Bouaddi would represent a younger and less expensive option, although Lille’s asking price remains significant for a player who is still early in his career.
For now, the Moroccan remains focused on his country’s World Cup campaign.
Morocco will face Scotland in their second Group C match before completing the group stage against Haiti.
