United’s hopes of landing midfield wonderkid left in tatters after fresh major transfer update

Lille midfielder and reported Manchester United target Ayyoub Bouaddi has put pen to paper on a new deal, it has been confirmed. Interested in Bouaddi Considered one of the best talents in European football, Bouaddi has been attracting interest from a number of elite European clubs, with United believed to be among them. He made his professional debut for Lille two years ago and has already amassed more than 70 first-team appearances for the Ligue 1 giants. Bouaddi is now one of the most important members of the squad, turning out 18 times across all competitions this term. United are believed to have scouted the 18-year-old heavily. He is admired at Old Trafford and there is a desire to snap him up ahead of other suitors. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Bouaddi would likely command a transfer fee of around £40 million. Christopher Vivell, director of recruitment at United, is understood to be driving the club’s charge to seal a deal for Bouaddi. In addition to United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain have also been strongly linked to the France youth international. However, it has now emerged that Bouaddi has signed a new contract with Lille. Bouaddi signs new deal Lille released a statement which reads, “LOSC is proud to announce the two-year contract extension of Ayyoub Bouaddi (18 years old), a product of the Domaine de Luchin academy. The French U21 international midfielder is now tied to his boyhood club until 2029.” Lille president Olivier Letang remarked, “The extension of Ayyoub’s contract is a very emotional moment for us, given the strong bond we share. First and foremost, it’s a deep and special human connection.” “Ayyoub is a crucial player in our squad. Through his values ​​and talent, he embodies the excellence of LOSC’s youth academy, which shapes not only footballers but also men. He possesses exceptional potential and remarkable maturity for his age.” “But that’s not enough to become a great champion. It also requires hard work, determination, humility, mental fortitude, and a certain spirit. And in these areas as well, Ayyoub offers all the qualities that lead me to believe he is, and will continue to be, a top-level footballer.” “To achieve this, he must continue to develop and grow. The environment we provide at LOSC is ideal for him to reach new heights. That’s why we are so happy to see Ayyoub Bouaddi continue his journey with us. With us.” Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano notes that Premier League clubs are still keeping tabs on Bouaddi. 🚨⭐️ Ayyoub Bouaddi signs new deal at Lille until June 2029, agreement done and sealed this week. Premier League clubs are monitoring 2007 born talent progress, including Arsenal and Chelsea. pic.twitter.com/tgAxUxi2lt — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 5, 2025 United return to action on Monday when they go away to Wolverhampton Wanderers. Feature image Christof Koepsel via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!