Man City in advanced talks for midfielder Bouaddi

Manchester City is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Lille for the transfer of Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The Premier League club is keen to secure the 18-year-old's signature this week, with Lille valuing the player at 100 million euros.

Bouaddi has emerged as a significant talent, impressing at the World Cup where he started all five of Morocco's matches. He also played a key role in Lille's Champions League victory over Real Madrid in 2024. Described as a deep-lying conductor, he could complement City's summer signing Elliot Anderson.

Since making his debut in October 2023, shortly after his 16th birthday, Bouaddi has played 88 times for Lille, helping them achieve a third-place finish in Ligue 1 last season. Meanwhile, City is preparing to sell Spanish captain Rodri to Barcelona for £65 million on a four-year contract.

Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, has made 298 appearances for City across seven seasons. Despite recent injury concerns, he returned to top form at the World Cup, leading Spain to victory and earning player of the tournament honors. The club's interest in Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez may also be affected by the potential Bouaddi signing, though manager Enzo Maresca reportedly maintains a strong interest in the Argentine midfielder.