Manchester City are racing against the clock to secure the signature of Moroccan prodigy Ayyoub Bouaddi before the weekend, with the Premier League champions eager to finalise a deal for the 18-year-old midfielder.
Man City Push to Seal £85m Deal for Lille’s Rising Star
The Etihad hierarchy have already agreed personal terms with the LOSC Lille starlet, who has emerged as the club’s primary target to fill the void that will be left by Rodri’s impending departure to Barcelona, according to TEAMtalk.
Bouaddi has attracted widespread attention following his impressive displays for Lille and his inclusion in Morocco’s 2026 World Cup squad.
City view the teenager as the ideal long-term successor to Rodri, with the Spain international’s move to the Camp Nou now appearing inevitable.
The young Moroccan’s playing style aligns perfectly with Maresca’s tactical requirements. His exceptional ball retention and composure under pressure mirror Rodri’s qualities, making him a natural fit for City’s possession-based system despite his limited experience at the highest level.
However, the transfer comes with a significant price tag. Lille are demanding a minimum of £85 million for their prized asset, with additional bonuses and add-ons likely to push the total package considerably higher.
Real Madrid have recently expressed interest in Bouaddi, but City remain firmly in pole position to complete the deal.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that personal terms are already in place between the player and the Manchester club.
The Bouaddi transfer represents a crucial piece of City’s midfield overhaul. Rodri’s departure to Barcelona, coupled with Bernardo Silva’s exit and the arrival of Elliot Anderson, has forced the champions to accelerate their recruitment plans.
Should City successfully secure Bouaddi this weekend, the club will immediately sanction Rodri’s move to the La Liga champions.
Reports suggest both transfers are progressing simultaneously and could be concluded in quick succession.
City’s midfield transformation is taking shape rapidly, and Bouaddi’s signature could be the defining moment of their transfer window.
