Liverpools title defence under Arne Slot has unravelled with alarming speed. A team that lifted the Premier League trophy last season has struggled to replicate its rhythm, balance and defensive control. Much of that stems from the ongoing search for a true holding midfielder, a role once mastered by Fabinho. Amid this uncertainty, attention has turned to Lilles 18-year-old prodigy Ayoub Bouaddi, a player who has already made over 100 senior appearances and is being tracked by Europes elite.
Dave Davis spoke recently on Anfield Indexs Transfer Market Metrics podcast about Liverpools growing interest in the Frenchman, joined by Dr Phil Barter, who provided data-led insights into Bouaddis potential fit. Their discussion has sparked genuine excitement among fans seeking a long-term midfield anchor.
This is a name known to all world scouts but Liverpool have scouted this kid a number of times, explained Dave Davis. The clubs scouting network has clearly been monitoring Bouaddi closely, aware of both his ability and contractual situation. With his current deal set to expire in 2027, Davis revealed, His contract expires in 2027, so he will have one year left in the summer. He added that all of the suggestions are that he doesnt want to sign a new deal and he wants to move on, creating an opening that clubs like Liverpool cannot ignore.
Bouaddis qualities are intriguing. Theres an element of Fabinho about him, perhaps without the ping and the progression, Davis noted. The comparison feels apt. Like the Brazilian in his prime, Bouaddi operates with positional discipline and tactical awareness, reading danger rather than chasing it. A lot of what we were being told was that this is the time to get him because of his contract situation, Davis continued, hinting that Lille may look to cash in early rather than risk losing him for less in 2026.
Dr Phil Barter, speaking alongside Davis, broke down the teenagers attributes with a statistical lens. He receives a good number of progressive passes, he can take players on and his pass completion is still 86% and thats about the same as Ryan Gravenberchs numbers. Those figures paint the picture of a player comfortable under pressure and reliable in possession, traits essential to the deep-lying midfield role that Liverpool crave.
In the box, Im actually quite pleased that hes low down in the numbers because it suggests that he doesnt go up towards the box! Barter remarked. Its a simple yet telling point. In an era where midfielders are often urged to attack, Bouaddis natural instinct is to hold his position, protect his defenders and link play intelligently. He receives the ball in tight areas and hes happy to then carry it quickly and play it. Hes not looking at trying to play 40 or 50-yard passes, Barter added, describing a midfielder focused on efficiency and quick transitions rather than showreel moments.
His defensive reading also impressed the data expert. The one thing that I love about this kid is that he is really pro-active and capable of reading the dangers so well. Theres a lot to like about him. For a Liverpool side too often exposed in central areas this season, that anticipation and awareness could prove transformative.
Liverpool are not alone in their admiration. PSG are having a good look at him too, Davis confirmed, adding that the info that we have got is that Lille would sanction a sale in January for around £45m and a lot of clubs around Europe love him. The price may seem steep for an 18-year-old, but his experience and composure suggest he is far beyond his years.
Bouaddis situation mirrors many of Europes recent breakout midfielders, young talents ready for the leap to elite competition. Lilles willingness to sell may prompt an early move from Liverpools recruitment team, particularly after the clubs struggles to replace Fabinhos defensive influence.
Arne Slots Liverpool have flair, energy and attacking depth, but what they lack is balance. Without a genuine defensive midfielder to anchor the system, the backline has been exposed too often and transitions have been poorly managed. Ayoub Bouaddi, by contrast, represents the calm amid the chaos. His game intelligence, spatial awareness and disciplined style echo what Liverpools midfield has been missing.
For all the talk of marquee signings, the solution might lie in a teenager who reads the game like a veteran. If the reports of a £45m valuation hold true, this could be a rare opportunity for Liverpool to invest in a player who bridges the present and the future.
As Dr Phil Barters analysis suggests, Bouaddi is not a showy playmaker or a risk-taking dribbler, but a cerebral, technically secure midfielder who could thrive under Slots structured, possession-oriented football. Hes a fascinating player and hes some talent, as Davis aptly concluded.
If Liverpool act decisively, Bouaddi could become the cornerstone of the clubs next evolution, restoring the defensive control that once made them champions of England and Europe.