Lille president Olivier Letang has linked the valuation of Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi to recent high-profile transfers. According to Letang, who spoke with Eurosport, the 18-year-old midfielder’s potential value is reflected in the market rates of players like Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson.
How much is Ayyoub Bouaddi worth to Lille?
While Olivier Letang denies that an official valuation has been set for Bouaddi, he pointed to two specific Premier League transfers as benchmarks. Letang cited the £116m deal that moved Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur’s club-record acquisition of Sandro Tonali, which could reach £100m.
Letang noted that Anderson (23) and Tonali (26) are older and have less room for development than Bouaddi. He described the teenager as having a “unique profile” and claimed he is already “one of the best midfielders in the world.”
Which clubs are tracking the Morocco midfielder?
Liverpool is among several clubs monitoring the teenager, according to reports. Letang conceded that interest in the player is “fierce” this summer, though he added that “very few” clubs can currently afford him.
The interest comes at a time of transition for Liverpool. The club has already spent £94.5m this window on winger Victor Munoz and centre-back Jeremy Jacquet. New head coach Andoni Iraola is set to begin his tenure with a friendly against Sunderland in Nashville on July 25.
Transfer Market Comparison
| Player | Approx. Value/Cost | Age (at transfer/current) |
|---|---|---|
| Elliot Anderson | £116m | 23 |
| Sandro Tonali | £100m | 26 |
| Ayyoub Bouaddi | – | 18 |
Why the “unique profile” matters for Liverpool
By comparing Bouaddi to Tonali and Anderson, Letang is framing the player not just as a prospect, but as a player with "significant room for improvement."
For Liverpool, adding Bouaddi would follow a spending spree that has already seen nearly £95m exit the club for Jacquet and Munoz. The move would align with the tactical needs of Andoni Iraola as he prepares for the club’s US tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ayyoub Bouaddi?
He is an 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder playing for Lille.
How much does Lille want for Bouaddi?
President Olivier Letang has not set a formal price but pointed to £100m-£116m transfers of similar midfielders as a benchmark.
Is Liverpool definitely signing him?
Liverpool is one of several clubs linked to the player, but no official bid has been confirmed.
What do you think about Lille’s approach to valuing an 18-year-old? Is he worth the investment? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more transfer updates.
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