Midfield rebuild continues
Manchester City are pressing ahead with plans to land Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, with the Moroccan teenager expected to reveal his intentions shortly. The FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders have already secured Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest but remain intent on adding a second midfielder this summer.
David Ornstein reports in The Athletic that City are pushing hard for Bouaddi, and that a decision on his future is imminent. Lille are expected to demand €100 million for the 18-year-old — a figure that is not thought to deter City.
Other clubs have discussed a deal that would see Bouaddi loaned back to Lille for the 2026-27 season. City, however, want him in Enzo Maresca's squad immediately. Manchester United and Arsenal are among the clubs who have spoken with Bouaddi's representatives over the past year, while PSG are not expected to be in the race.
At first glance, €100 million for an 18-year-old seems steep. But Bouaddi is no ordinary prospect. He plays a difficult midfield role with a maturity beyond his years — most recently on display when Morocco drew 1-1 with Brazil in their opening World Cup group game this summer. Bouaddi bossed a Brazil midfield containing Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro and Lucas Paqueta, and was not overwhelmed by the occasion throughout Morocco's campaign.
That composure, combined with his technical and tactical ability, makes him a tantalising prospect. If City want a midfielder who can contribute now and eventually replace Rodri, Bouaddi fits the profile. An outlay of around €100 million may look like a bargain if he develops as expected.
City are pushing hard to win this race. It will cost them, but they may well be poised to land a significant blow in this summer's window.