Manchester City are in advanced negotiations with Lille over a deal for highly rated Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with the Premier League champions looking to conclude the transfer quickly. Lille are understood to value the 18-year-old at around €100 million (£85.6m).
The move comes as City prepare for the departure of Rodri, with Barcelona having agreed a deal worth around £65.4 million for the Spanish midfielder.
Bouaddi, who can operate as a deep-lying midfielder, has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents. His performances for Morocco at the World Cup further strengthened his reputation, while his displays for Lille—including their memorable Champions League victory over Real Madrid—have attracted major attention.
City have already invested heavily in midfield this summer, including the reported £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson, and manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that the club intends to remain active in the transfer market.
What Bouaddi could bring to City
🇲🇦 **18-year-old Moroccan international
🧠 Comfortable as a deep-lying playmaker
⚽ Already highly experienced for his age
🏆 Impressed on the Champions League stage
💰 Lille’s valuation: approximately £85.6m
🔵 Potentially part of City’s midfield rebuild following Rodri’s exit
City’s interest in Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández** could also be affected by the Bouaddi deal, although reports indicate the club remain interested in the Argentine midfielder.
