Manchester United (Man U) appears ready to even deploy "living legend" Alex Ferguson (85), the former manager, to sign France's "rising star" Ayoub Buadi (19, LOSC Lille).
French journalist Abdella Bouma wrote on his social media on the 30th (Korea time) that "Buadi is attracting interest across Europe. Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Man U are watching."
He added that "Man U has stepped up efforts to meet people close to Buadi and is even considering bringing in Sir Alex Ferguson to persuade him."
According to the U.K. outlet Offside, Buadi is at the top of the summer transfer wish lists of leading European clubs. With Arsenal showing strong interest, Lee Kang-in (25)'s club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is also stepping up its pursuit of Buadi.
Buadi was born in 2007 and is currently a 19-year-old midfielder. He can play centrally as well as in a defensive midfield role. Buadi is under contract with Lille through the summer of 2027.
Buadi's current market value is estimated at €15 million (about 26 billion won). However, because of fierce competition among big clubs, the actual transfer fee is expected to far exceed that amount.
Buadi's top choice is PSG. Because PSG competes for trophies every season and regularly appears in the Champions League, there would be little adaptation burden from an environmental change. At the same time, it would be an opportunity to experience a higher level of football.
However, from Lille's perspective, allowing Buadi to move to PSG could be burdensome. There is concern about giving a talented prospect to a rival within the league.
Arsenal is also an attractive destination. Under manager Mikel Arteta (44), the ability to draw out young players' potential could greatly aid Buadi's development.
Man U currently needs immediate reinforcements in midfield. If Buadi were to wear the Man U jersey, he would likely quickly claim a starting spot.
The appearance of the symbolic figure of former manager Ferguson could exert considerable influence on a young player at a crucial career juncture. Whether Man U's "Ferguson card" will outmaneuver Arsenal and PSG and become the decisive The Divine Move to capture Buadi's heart is a matter of keen interest.
[OSEN]