Journalist: Liverpool must pay £60m to sign ‘really talented’ World Cup star

Liverpool Face Major Investment to Land Ayyoub Bouaddi

Liverpool’s reported interest in Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi continues to gather momentum, but during Media Matters on Anfield Index, the biggest talking point was not whether the Reds admire the teenager. It was how much they may have to pay to sign him.

Speaking with Dave Davis, Lewis Steele suggested Liverpool’s interest is genuine, while also revealing the scale of the financial commitment required if the club decide to accelerate their pursuit.

Lille Set Significant Asking Price

Bouaddi’s emergence as one of Europe’s most highly regarded young midfielders has naturally driven up his value.

Discussing the situation, Steele revealed: “What I’ve had back is that they’d want about 70 million euros, which is about 60 in pounds.”

That figure immediately places Bouaddi among the most expensive young midfielders on the market. While £60 million may not be unusual for an established Premier League star, it represents a substantial outlay for an 18 year old still developing his game.

Yet Steele was quick to point out that Liverpool have shown a willingness to make major investments in elite young talent before.

“Liverpool have been prepared to do it before.”

Arsenal Competition Could Push the Price Higher

The valuation becomes even more significant when competition is taken into account.

Davis referenced reports that both Liverpool and Arsenal have held meetings with Bouaddi’s representatives, creating the possibility of a bidding battle between two of England’s biggest clubs.

Steele acknowledged that Arsenal may currently hold a slight advantage.

“People seem to think Arsenal may be slightly ahead of Liverpool in the race at the moment, but obviously that could change very quickly.”

If multiple clubs remain interested, Lille will have little incentive to lower their demands.

Liverpool Must Decide How Highly They Rate Him

One of the more revealing elements of the discussion was Steele’s belief that Liverpool’s admiration is real.

“I think you can definitively say that Liverpool are keen on him.”

That statement moves the conversation beyond speculation. The question is no longer whether Liverpool like the player, but whether they are prepared to meet Lille’s valuation.

Steele also suggested that Bouaddi’s performances have strengthened his reputation.

“He looks really talented.”

The teenager’s display against Brazil at the World Cup only increased attention around a player who was already attracting interest across Europe.

Photo: IMAGO

Value Versus Potential

Liverpool’s recruitment model has often focused on securing players before they reach their peak value. Bouaddi fits that profile perfectly.

However, spending around £60 million on an 18 year old remains a major decision, particularly during a summer when Liverpool are also assessing reinforcements in attack, defence and other midfield areas.

For now, Steele expects patience rather than immediate action.

“I can’t see any big progress on this in the next seven days for example.”

That may suit everyone involved. Bouaddi has publicly stated his focus remains on the World Cup, while Liverpool continue evaluating their options.

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p style=”text-align:justify”>What is clear from the conversation is that Lille know exactly how highly they rate their young midfielder. If Liverpool decide Bouaddi is the right player for the future, they will likely have to pay a premium to secure one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.