Negotiations accelerating for teenage midfielder
Fabrizio Romano has reported that Manchester City are increasingly optimistic about securing Ayyoub Bouaddi. The transfer insider states negotiations are accelerating and the club are confident to get a deal done for the 18-year-old in the coming days.
Romano posted:
"Manchester City are confident to get deal done for Ayyoub Bouaddi in the next days."
He added:
"Negotiations are accelerating as reported on Monday and #MCFC increasingly optimistic."
Flexible timeline for arrival
The primary focus for City is wrapping up total agreement on terms with Lille. After that, the timing of Bouaddi's integration into the first team remains flexible. City are open to structuring the agreement so that he either completes a temporary stay or moves directly to the Etihad Stadium.
According to Romano, whether Bouaddi joins now or in 2027 could depend on exits, including the Rodri situation. Rodri is set to join Real Madrid.
Bouaddi announced himself on the global stage following a remarkable campaign with Lille and stellar international displays for Morocco. The 18-year-old midfielder has established himself as one of the most composed deep-lying playmakers in Europe, earning wide praise for his technical maturity, vision under pressure, and elite ball recovery.