​Liverpool’s search for midfield reinforcements has produced no shortage of names this summer, but few possess the potential of Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe 18-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable rise, and following an impressive World Cup, competition for his signature appears to be intensifying. On the latest edition of Media Matters for Anfield Index, Eddie Gibbs and Liverpool journalist David Lynch discussed where Liverpool stand, why Manchester City are now pushing strongly, and whether the Reds should still believe a deal remains possible.While City’s interest has inevitably attracted attention, neither Gibbs nor Lynch believes Liverpool should yet consider themselves out of the race.The discussion followed reports that Manchester City are pushing aggressively to sign Bouaddi, with the midfielder reportedly valued at more than €100 million.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementGibbs acknowledged the reaction among Liverpool supporters, many of whom immediately feared the race was effectively over.He pointed to Liverpool’s recent success in competing with City for elite talent, reminding listeners that reputation alone should not decide transfer battles.The greater concern, however, centred on the asking price.For an 18 year old, Gibbs questioned whether the valuation had moved beyond Liverpool’s comfort zone.David Lynch confirmed that Liverpool’s interest predates Bouaddi’s performances on the international stage.“Definitely a player Liverpool admire and had done before the World Cup.”AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThat point is significant.Rather than reacting to a handful of eye catching displays, Liverpool had already identified Bouaddi as a player worthy of close attention.However, the World Cup has undoubtedly complicated matters.Lynch admitted:“I think it’s not been helpful for their interest just how good of a World Cup he’s had.”His reasoning was straightforward.“I just think it’s pushed the price up even further.”That, naturally, strengthens Manchester City’s position.Lynch believes City may simply be operating in a different financial bracket when recruiting young elite talent.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“It has pushed the price into the kind of realms of prices that maybe Manchester City are slightly more willing to pay for a younger player than Liverpool would be.”That does not mean Liverpool have withdrawn.Far from it.Lynch urged caution before writing off Liverpool’s chances.“It’s still early days in that one.”He added:“I don’t think we’re in the place where we can completely rule them out.”Those comments reflected Liverpool’s broader recruitment strategy.The club are prepared to compete financially for players they truly believe can become long term cornerstones of the squad, even if they remain more selective than some of their Premier League rivals.Photo: IMAGOAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementOne factor