Manchester City are finalizing a major transfer agreement for 18-year-old Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with the club expressing confidence in securing the deal for £85 million. The pursuit of the Morocco international has been one of the most competitive narratives of the summer, featuring interest from prominent clubs including Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Bouaddi’s reputation has surged following an impressive performance at the FIFA World Cup in North America, where he appeared in every game for his country except 1 during Morocco’s run to the quarter-finals. His consistent play confirmed his status as one of Europe’s most promising young talents, leading Manchester City to prioritize his signing before the transfer window closes.
High-level executive engagement has been critical to the negotiations, with CEO Ferran Soriano and director of football Hugo Viana conducting face-to-face talks with Lille president Olivier Létang. This effort follows City's recent £116 million acquisition of Elliot Anderson, with the club demonstrating a willingness to meet Lille’s valuation, which the French side has set at €100m as Manchester City push for his services.
Manager Enzo Maresca is eager to integrate Bouaddi directly into his first-team squad, viewing the midfielder as a long-term successor for Rodri. The club believes that working alongside the world-class holding midfielder will provide the ideal environment for Bouaddi’s continued development. His tactical intelligence and physical growth align with the requirements of Maresca’s system.
While Lille’s valuation was initially seen as a barrier for other interested parties, City’s commitment to the financial terms has moved them into a leading position. It remains to be determined whether the final paperwork can be processed in time for the teenager to join pre-season training at the City Football Academy or if his arrival will be slightly delayed.
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