Barcelona is targeting Lille OSC midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with the French club demanding a fee between €70M and €80M for the 18-year-old.
The teenager’s profile exploded during the 2026 World Cup, where he represented France on the global stage. Lille recently fortified its negotiating position by extending Bouaddi’s contract through 2029.
Barcelona faces stiff competition from Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, and Liverpool. This multi-club interest could trigger a bidding war, though reports suggest the final price may settle closer to €55M or €60M in direct negotiations.
If finalized at the top valuation, the signing would bring Barcelona’s summer spending to roughly €160M, following a previously agreed €80M transfer for forward Anthony Gordon from Newcastle. The club is clearly targeting elite talent under the age of 25 to reshape its squad.
Lille holds significant leverage due to the long-term contract, allowing them to reject offers that do not meet their strict valuation.