Arsenal latest: Hijack threat emerges as Ayyoub Bouaddi gives transfer verdict

Ayyoub Bouaddi has commented on recent speculation linking him with an Arsenal move

The summer transfer window has officially opened, allowing Arsenal to pursue their long list of targets.

The Gunners ended the 2025/26 campaign with mixed emotions, securing the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years before suffering a Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

Manager Mikel Arteta vowed immediately after that devastating loss that the club would not become complacent and would look to bolster the squad during the transfer window. Sporting director Andrea Berta is understood to be prioritising a central midfielder and a left winger this summer.

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The ongoing World Cup 2026 adds another layer of complexity to the north Londoners' transfer business as they navigate fluctuating prices. The club are also eager to move on several players, having struggled with outgoing transfers in recent seasons.

football.london now examines two of the most recent transfer developments concerning the English champions.

Ayyoub Bouaddi drops transfer update

Teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi has admitted he is "really happy" to find himself linked with several big clubs this summer, including Arsenal. The Lille midfielder is currently representing Morocco at the World Cup, where his impressive performance against Brazil has intensified attention from various suitors.

football.london understands Arsenal sporting director Berta has already made inroads with Bouaddi's representatives. These conversations did not take place this week; they are understood to have happened as early as the start of the year as the Italian chief has known for some time that Bouaddi was a world-class talent.

Lille are understood to have placed a £60m valuation on Bouaddi, who has already managed 96 appearances for the French outfit. The midfielder has now provided an encouraging update, admitting that being linked with the two Champions League finalists pleases him, while suggesting any transfer will need to wait until the World Cup concludes.

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 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."

Kroupi transfer hijack emerges

Arsenal are facing rival interest in their pursuit of another priority target. Barcelona have reportedly made an enquiry for Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi.

The 19-year-old Frenchman netted 13 Premier League goals this campaign, including one against Manchester City that handed the Gunners the title. But while football.london understands Arteta is eyeing the youngster as he looks to add a creative spark up top, Kroupi is also being pursued by the likes of PSG, Chelsea, Manchester City and now Barcelona.

Spanish publication SPORT claims Barcelona have expressed interest as they look for Robert Lewandowski's successor at the Nou Camp. Julian Alvarez remains the Catalans' first-choice target, but they have also approached the Cherries regarding Kroupi as a potential alternative.

The striker is reportedly admired at Barcelona, although the Spanish champions harbour concerns about his substantial £86m price-tag. They may therefore look to use some unwanted stars in a player-plus-cash swap deal.

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