Real Madrid Add Arsenal-Linked Midfielder to Transfer Shortlist After Mourinho’s Request

Real Madrid have reportedly added Arsenal target Ayyoub Bouaddi to their list of potential midfield signings after manager Jose Mourinho urged the club to strengthen his squad further ahead of the new season.

The Spanish giants have wasted little time rebuilding following a disappointing 2025/26 campaign, with Mourinho returning to the Santiago Bernabéu for a second spell in charge. Real have already moved aggressively in the transfer market, securing deals for Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella and Bernardo Silva. However, the Portuguese coach is keen to bring in at least two more players before the transfer window closes.

According to reports in Spain, Mourinho has asked the club to sign another central defender as well as a creative midfielder capable of controlling the tempo of matches. Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez remains Real Madrid’s preferred option, but the Premier League side are believed to value the Argentine international at around £120 million, making a deal difficult.

West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes is another player admired by Mourinho, although Tottenham are reportedly leading the race for his signature, with Manchester United also monitoring the situation.

As a result, Real Madrid are exploring alternative options, and Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi has emerged as one of the names under consideration. The highly rated midfielder, who has also attracted interest from Arsenal, has reportedly been added to Real’s shortlist. While he is not currently the club’s first-choice target, Madrid are continuing to monitor his development closely as they assess their options for the remainder of the transfer window.