Man Utd, Arsenal and Liverpool sent strong warning over signing World Cup breakout star

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Premier League sides have been warned that they might have to break the £100m mark to sign World Cup star Ayyoub Bouaddi. The teenager has shone for Morocco at this summer’s tournament, having played a pivotal role for the African side’s run to the quarter finals.

That comes after three impressive seasons with French side Lille, having broken through into the side at just 16 years of age. Bouaddi’s performances have seen a number of sides keep a close eye on him, including Manchester United , Arsenal and Liverpool .

But Lille president Olivier Letang has warned those interested that they may have to dig deep into their pockets in order to sign him.

Speaking to Eurosport , he said: “Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him right now. He's already one of the best midfielders in the world and still has significant room for improvement.

“He's only 18 and has his whole future ahead of him. He's focused on continuing to develop and winning everything.”

Asked if he had set a price for the midfielder, Letang replied: "How to answer that question... Have I spoken, brought up the subject, given a figure? No, never.

“You have to look at his level. How much have players like (Elliot) Anderson or (Sandro) Tonali been sold for, who are much older, but without room for improvement, so you have an idea of the value of Ayyoub, who has a unique profile at only 18 years old."

From Bouaddi’s perspective, he has three years remaining on his contract with Lille, with previous reports having suggested that the club valued him at around £70m.

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He was asked about his future earlier this summer but was putting any speculation to the back of his mind during the World Cup. The midfielder said: "For the moment I'm only focused on the World Cup, I cannot answer to this right now.

“I’m really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me but for now I’m here focused on the World Cup with Morocco and we will try to give everything to do our best."

Bouaddi and Morocco will be back in action in the coming days as they take on France in the quarter-finals of the tournament. Should they beat Les Bleus, they will seal a spot in the World Cup semi-finals for the second consecutive tournament and will take on either Portugal , Spain , USA or Belgium in the last four.