Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke has urged the club to prioritise signing Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi over other targets including Youri Tielemans and Bruno Guimaraes. Speaking to betting site British Gambler, Yorke said the £85m-rated Moroccan wonderkid has the potential to become 'the best in the world' in his position.
Yorke's top midfield target
Bouaddi, 19, emerged as one of the breakout stars at the 2026 World Cup, impressing particularly in Morocco's victory over Brazil. Yorke believes the teenager is worth the significant investment. 'I would spend money on Bouaddi because he has the potential to be the best in the world,' he said.
The former striker, a key member of United's 1999 treble-winning side, added: 'Outside of Bouaddi, there is nobody else making me think wow, there's £100 million worth of player here.'
Comparison with other targets
United have been linked with a host of midfielders this summer, including Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans, who has a £35m release clause. Reports on Monday suggested the Red Devils were closing in on a deal for the Belgian international. However, Yorke prefers Bouaddi. 'Youri Tielemans? He is a very solid player... I prefer him ahead of other options, except for Ayyoub Bouaddi of Morocco. He would be my first choice,' Yorke stated.
Regarding Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes, who has also been linked with Arsenal, Yorke was less enthusiastic. 'I don't know about Bruno Guimaraes. I'm not sure he has been that impressive... He doesn't excite me,' Yorke said, adding that the Brazilian's performances at the World Cup 'worried' him.
Transfer market criticism
Yorke expressed bewilderment at modern transfer fees, questioning the value of players like Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali being valued at £100m. 'A £100 million player should be somebody who does things that no other players can do on the planet,' he argued. 'Give me Bouaddi any day of the week ahead of those guys.'
United's summer transfer plans
United have already been active this summer, bringing in Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha for a combined £200m last year, and recently signing Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48m. Central midfield is now a priority following Casemiro's departure, with Ederson's move from Atalanta falling through.
Yorke, now a pundit, believes United need four or five more signings before the September 1 deadline. 'Fixing the spine of the team is the key. I'd like to see United sign another number nine. Obviously they need to replace Casemiro. I think they may also need another central defender,' he said.
He also highlighted the importance of squad depth for Champions League football, echoing manager Michael Carrick's need for 26 quality players to compete on all fronts.
