Ayyoub Bouaddi, the 18-year-old midfielder from Lille, has attracted significant interest from major European clubs such as Real Madrid and Barcelona. According to Spanish media, Paris Saint-Germain has decided to step back from the pursuit of this highly rated young talent, clearing the way for the Spanish giants.
PSG's strategic shift involves focusing on internal talents, with contract extensions secured for players like Senny Mayulu, Fabián Ruiz, and Lucas Beraldo, alongside the growing role of Desire Doue. This change reduces competition for Bouaddi and simplifies the transfer landscape for Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Bouaddi is considered one of the most promising players of his generation. He holds the record as the youngest player in Ligue 1 history to reach 50 league appearances, surpassing former Lille star Eden Hazard. His maturity was also evident during Morocco's run to the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, where he started five matches, becoming the second-youngest player ever to start a World Cup quarter-final after Pelé.
Lille president Olivier Létang is confident in Bouaddi's long-term future at the club, having secured his contract until June 2029, and faces no pressure to approve a quick sale. However, PSG’s withdrawal opens an opportunity for Barcelona or Real Madrid to advance negotiations if they choose to do so.
Scouts view Bouaddi as a strategic long-term asset, ready to make the step to a top European club sooner rather than later. No formal offers from the Spanish clubs have been made so far, but the situation may evolve in the coming months.
