Manchester City is accelerating for Ayyoub Bouaddi. The English club is now close to an agreement with Lille for the transfer of the 18-year-old midfielder, in a deal valued at around 85 million pounds (approximately €100M). Personal terms are said to have already been agreed.
The context is particularly telling. Manchester City has just accepted the departure of Rodri to FC Barcelona for around 65.4 million pounds, and is now looking to strengthen its midfield. The Spaniard's transfer is expected to be finalised soon.
The Bouaddi card
Bouaddi is no longer just a promising prospect. The midfielder, trained at Lille, established himself in Ligue 1 at a very young age and also played an important role with Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, starting five of the Atlas Lions' six matches.
His profile appeals to City for his ability to operate in several midfield roles. But contrary to what the timing might suggest, Bouaddi is not intended to directly replace Rodri. Manchester City is already counting on Elliot Anderson to take on more of that role, while viewing Bouaddi as a major investment for its midfield.
City also remains interested in Enzo Fernández, even though his price, estimated at around 120 million pounds, complicates a potential deal.
FootReporter's analysis
City is already preparing for life after Rodri, but is not simply looking for a replacement. With Bouaddi, the club above all wants to invest in a young midfielder capable of becoming a key piece of its new cycle.
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