Arsenal accelerate move for Ayyoub Bouaddi after preliminary talks

Arsenal are at the front of the queue for Morocco star Ayyoub Bouaddi's services after holding discussions about a move with his representatives.

Bouaddi emerged onto the world's radar last week with a stellar performance for Morocco in their World Cup opener against Brazil.

He followed that up with another strong showing against Scotland on Friday night, and is believed to be on the radar of several top clubs.

The 18-year-old shone for Lille throughout last season as they finished third in Ligue 1 and made the Europa League round of 16.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Arsenal are the front runners for his signature as it stands after opening talks with his camp.

Numerous other top European sides are also keen on Bouaddi, who has three years left to run on his contract at Lille.

Mikel Arteta is keen to invest in young talent this summer as Arsenal aim to build a Premier League dynasty following their title win.

Bouaddi only turned 18 in October, but started 28 Ligue 1 games last season and emerged with standout dribbling, duels won and recovery stats compared to other midfielders in the division.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Look, 18 years old, playing in the World Cup against Brazil, he was outstanding.

"Just what a top young talent he is. He has been talked about for a while now, having broken through at Lille.

"Arsenal are maybe at the front of the queue for Bouaddi. They've had talks with his agents."

Bouaddi is catching the eye across Europe as he shines at the World Cup, having only declared for Morocco just weeks before the tournament.

According to Football Insider's sources, Aston Villa are planning a move to sign Bouaddi after also being impressed by his recent performances.

They have reportedly scouted the young star for several months, after knocking his Lille side out of the Europa League in March.

Other reports have also claimed that Liverpool and Chelsea are interested in the 18-year-old too.