Blues Move Quickly to Shore Up Squad as Exit Door Creaks
Manchester City have been busy. Four new faces have already arrived at the Etihad this summer — Elliot Anderson, Mathys Detourbet, Jeremy Monga and Pierce Charles — and the club show no signs of slowing down.
The latest developments point to a midfield reshuffle and a fresh option between the sticks, with two deals moving in tandem.
Bouaddi Agreement Reached, But Sticking Point Remains
Ayyoub Bouaddi, the Lille and Morocco midfielder, has emerged as City's principal candidate to fill the void left by Rodri. The Blues have agreed a long-term arrangement with the player, according to TEAMtalk, with a move to Manchester in the pipeline.
But there is a catch. Lille want to keep the France Under-21 international on loan for the rest of the season as part of any deal, a proposal City have so far resisted. The Blues want Bouaddi in Enzo Maresca's squad immediately, not in 12 months' time.
The situation is complicated by Rodri's own future. The Ballon d'Or winner has entered the final year of his contract and is reportedly keen on a move to Real Madrid. City risk losing their midfield anchor this summer, which would make Bouaddi's arrival all the more pressing.
Rulli Bid Submitted as Trafford Heads for Exit
Meanwhile, City have made their first official bid for Geronimo Rulli. Fabrizio Romano reported on Tuesday morning that the club had sent an offer to Olympique Marseille for the Argentine goalkeeper.
Rulli has been identified as the preferred replacement for James Trafford, who is closing in on a move to Leeds United. Romano had previously stated City wanted Rulli as their new backup keeper, with the player keen on the switch and Marseille aware of the interest. Negotiations between the clubs are now underway.
It is a busy window at the Etihad, and the picture is becoming clearer — but the Bouaddi situation still needs resolving before City can finalise their plans.