Midfield search continues
Manchester City have held direct talks with Lille over a potential move for midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to journalist Matteo Moretto.
The 18-year-old Moroccan is understood to be of significant interest to the club as they look to strengthen their options in the middle of the park this summer.
Moretto reports that City and Lille have had contact regarding a possible deal, though there is no indication yet whether an official offer will follow.
The update follows a claim from ESPN Deportes reporter Rodra, who stated that City are the team best placed to sign Bouaddi.
With Elliot Anderson's medical all but completed and official confirmation of his signing from Nottingham Forest expected shortly, finding another midfielder remains high on Hugo Viana's list of priorities.
Bouaddi, at 18, represents both an immediate option and one for the longer term. His pedigree suggests he could contribute now while developing into a key figure in future seasons.
Whether City actually move for him this summer remains to be seen, but the signs are pointing in that direction. For now, they continue to assess the market for midfield reinforcements.