Liverpool’s Bouaddi chase hinges on midfield exits and price rise

Liverpool have been linked with Lille’s 19‑year‑old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with reports placing his price at about €80 million after a recent jump from €65 million two weeks earlier, Romano’s latest figures. The English club’s scouting team has been monitoring the French side’s talent closely.

Dave Davis highlighted the growing speculation on the Lille youngster, saying, “It does feel like the only worry about Bouaddi is it seems clear Liverpool have watched him, but every report you hear, the price goes up.” He noted that recent reports had seen the valuation rise dramatically, from €70 million to €80 million, with an earlier figure of €65 million two weeks ago.

David Lynch acknowledged the increasing price and the competition from other clubs, stating, “So, quite expensive as you say and I think the fact that other clubs are involved as well. You don’t want to end up in a bidding war that just pushes the price up.” He stressed that Liverpool do not want to enter a bidding war that could further inflate the fee.

Lynch explained that Liverpool’s midfield plans are tied to potential departures, pointing to Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister as possible exits. He said, “the numbers there just don’t kind of add up at the moment” and added, “they probably need outgoings.”

Until any of those players leave, Lynch said Liverpool are unlikely to pursue another midfielder, noting, “Until you kind of get anything concrete moving on those, I’m not 100% that Liverpool are going to be making moves in the midfielder market just yet.” This measured approach keeps resources available for positions viewed as more urgent.

Despite the waiting game, Lynch confirmed Bouaddi remains on Liverpool’s shortlist, remarking, “Bouaddi is obviously on the list if they do open up a spot.” He added that if the transfer window closes without a midfield vacancy, it would be surprising if Liverpool had not added a player.

Dave Davis referenced French reports suggesting Lille could eventually sanction Bouaddi’s departure if their own midfield reshuffle provides him with more regular opportunities. This indicates that both clubs see a possible path for the teenager’s move, contingent on squad changes.

In summary, Liverpool will monitor the situation and wait for Curtis Jones or Alexis Mac Allister to exit before committing to Bouaddi, while Lille appears prepared to consider a sale should their midfield restructure create space. Both sides therefore view the potential transfer as dependent on internal roster adjustments rather than immediate action.