Lille holding out for big fee
Manchester City have reportedly made headway in their pursuit of Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, one of the breakout stars of the recent World Cup.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the Blues have “made progress” in negotiations for the 19-year-old Moroccan. Lille are holding out for €100m for an immediate transfer, though that figure could drop if a buyer agrees to send Bouaddi back on loan for the season.
Talks have been ongoing between the clubs since last month. Bouaddi is expected to hold discussions with Lille president Olivier Létang now the World Cup has concluded, with Létang reportedly keen to keep the youngster for another year.
Whether City would be open to a loan-back arrangement remains to be seen. There’s no pressing need for Bouaddi in Enzo Maresca’s current squad, but there’s also a strong case for getting him in now and starting his integration into English football.
“Manchester City have made progress in their pursuit of Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi. Lille want €100m for an immediate transfer. Talks have been ongoing between clubs since last month. Package would drop if suitors agree to a loan-back or pre-agreement.”
With the World Cup entering its final week, deals of this nature tend to accelerate. Either way, Lille are sitting on a significant windfall given Bouaddi’s age, talent and growing reputation.