Ayyoub Bouaddi: Morocco Star's Transfer Stance Amid Arsenal and Liverpool Interest

Ayoub Bouaddi of Morocco has been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool (Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has admitted he's "really happy" to see his name linked with moves to top clubs in the summer, but he's made it clear his attention remains firmly on the World Cup with his country before any decisions about his future are made.

The 18-year-old has attracted significant interest from several sides, with Arsenal and Liverpool amongst the latest to express their admiration for Bouaddi following his meteoric rise on the international stage.

Premier League rivals will have been captivated by the teenager's display in his World Cup debut, where he orchestrated proceedings for Morocco in their Group C opener against Brazil.

Despite an array of established stars on show, from Vinicius Jr and Raphinha to Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari, it was Bouaddi's youthful brilliance that shone brightest, eclipsing the household names around him.

Bouaddi has stressed his priorities lie with the tournament at hand, and a move to a top Premier League club may require patience to finalise any agreement.

Speaking to The Athletic following his showing against Brazil, he said: "For the moment, I am only focused on the World Cup and I cannot answer to this right now.

“Of course, I’m really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me. But, for now, I’m only focused on the World Cup with Morocco and we will try to give everything to do our best.”

Arsenal have reportedly opened talks to sign Bouaddi from Lille this summer, with a potential transfer value of around £60 million.

The Ligue 1 outfit may not be looking to part ways with the teenager at the moment, but with Bouaddi's impressive World Cup display, interest is set to increase.