Liverpool have 'firm' interest in £69m Arsenal transfer target starring at World Cup

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Andoni Iraola could pull off another transfer hijack with Liverpool holding a 'firm interest' in £69million Arsenal target Ayyoub Bouaddi. The teenage midfielder has shone for Morocco at this summer's World Cup, fuelling further speculation surrounding his future as Europe's heavy hitters circle.

Frequent reports have suggested that Bouaddi could be set for a transfer during this summer's window, with tentative claims that Liverpool might be amongst the contenders to secure the gifted midfielder's signature.

Now, fresh information has emerged regarding the 18-year-old's future, involving Liverpool.

According to the Daily Mail , Liverpool hold a "firm" interest in trying to sign Bouaddi, with the midfielder rated highly by figures within the club. The Reds will, however, encounter competition from numerous clubs for the highly coveted youngster.

The report states that Arsenal , Chelsea , Manchester City and Real Madrid have all been linked with moves for Bouaddi, who is widely regarded as one of the most promising talents in world football.

Liverpool have already pipped one Premier League rival to a new arrival this summer, with the Reds wrapping up a deal for Victor Munoz, who had attracted interest from Newcastle .

Hijacking a deal for Bouaddi will prove more challenging, though. Arsenal are understood to have held talks about submitting a bid to land the talented £69m-rated star.

Bouaddi's displays at the World Cup will undoubtedly spark further discussions at some of Europe's elite clubs, with supporters already captivated by his composure at such a young age. He was particularly eye-catching in the draw with Brazil and the victory over Scotland .

Arsenal have held a long-standing interest in Bouaddi, meaning Liverpool face a considerable challenge if they hope to beat their Premier League rivals in the race to secure the midfielder's signature this summer.

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A separate report in The Athletic has suggested that Lille are intent on holding onto Bouaddi, though he is understood to be valued at around €80million (£69m) this summer.

The same report indicates that Bouaddi, should he depart Lille, would be keen to join a club where he is guaranteed a regular starting berth in the centre of midfield.

This could prove to be a welcome boost for Liverpool, given that several other clubs reportedly chasing the teenager may struggle to offer him that assurance.

Arsenal already have Declan Rice , Martin Odegaard and Martin Zubimendi as established names in the midfield positions where Bouaddi would ordinarily play.

Man City are meanwhile reportedly on the brink of completing a deal for Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest , in a transfer understood to be worth in the region of £116million.

With City anticipated to spend in excess of £100million on a single midfielder expected to feature regularly in the starting line-up, it is unclear whether a move for Bouaddi would still be feasible.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are expected to focus their efforts on bringing in a new forward before turning their attention to other areas of the squad, with RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande firmly in their sights.

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