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Lille wonderkid Bouaddi could break Pepe transfer record

30. March 2026
Ayyoub Bouaddi (foto: Getty Images)
Lille’s 18-year-old talent Ayyoub Bouaddi is attracting major interest from Europe’s giants, with a potential transfer that could surpass Nicolas Pepe’s record €80 million move.

Lille could be on the verge of breaking their own transfer record once again.

The club that sold Nicolas Pépé to Arsenal for €80 million now has a new rising star who could surpass that figure.

His name is Ayyoub Bouaddi, and at just 18 years old, he is already one of the most talked-about talents in European football.

Record-breaking deal on the horizon

According to French media, Bouaddi’s value is rising fast.

With several top clubs in the race, Lille are in a strong position to demand a record-breaking fee.

The club’s leadership, led by Olivier Létang, has a clear strategy.

Sell high, and only on their terms.

That approach has already delivered major deals in recent years.

Victor Osimhen and Leny Yoro both left for huge sums, reinforcing Lille’s reputation as a club that develops and sells elite talent.

Europe’s giants circling

The interest in Bouaddi is intense.

Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, and Manchester United are all closely tracking his situation.

This level of demand could trigger a bidding war in the summer window.

At the same time, there is also an international battle.

France and Morocco both want him to commit at senior level.

Already delivering at the top level

Despite his age, Bouaddi is not a future prospect.

He is already a regular starter for Lille.

This season, he has made 36 appearances across all competitions, showing maturity beyond his years.

A technically gifted central midfielder, he combines composure, vision, and control in possession.

His current market value is estimated at around €50 million, placing him among the most valuable teenagers in world football.

Only a few names rank higher in his age group, including Lamine Yamal and Estevao.

What comes next?

Lille are in no rush.

But with demand growing and the market heating up, a major transfer looks increasingly likely.

If the right offer arrives, history could be made again.

And Ayyoub Bouaddi could become the club’s biggest sale ever.

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