Manchester City Nears Deal for Lille Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi Amid Rodri Departure

Manchester City is close to finalizing a major signing this summer after reaching an agreement on personal terms with Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old Moroccan international has become a top target for Enzo Maresca as the club prepares to reshape its midfield following Rodri's expected move to Barcelona.

Swift Progress in Transfer Talks

The deal between City and Bouaddi has advanced quickly, with the player eager to make the move to the Etihad Stadium promptly. After impressive performances for both his club and Morocco, the teenager has emerged as a priority for City’s summer recruitment. The transfer is reportedly in its final phase, with the Premier League season set to begin within two weeks.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared on X: “Ayyoub Bouaddi and his camp have now reached an agreement on personal terms with Manchester City. #MCFC expected to seal the deal with Lille as next step, already advanced as Bouaddi preference would be to join City NOW — rather than in 2027.”

Bouaddi’s Rapid Rise

Bouaddi’s development over the past year has been remarkable. During the 2025-26 season, he secured a regular starting spot at Lille, making 35 starts and five substitute appearances across Ligue 1 and the Europa League. His capacity to control the game from deep positions and his physical readiness have drawn comparisons to some of the sport's elite midfielders.

His international experience further boosts his value, having started five matches for Morocco in the World Cup at just 18 years old.

Maresca’s Midfield Overhaul

Signing Bouaddi represents a major financial commitment, potentially pushing Manchester City's summer spending close to £200 million. This follows the £116 million transfer of Elliott Anderson from Nottingham Forest earlier in the window.

Negotiations between City and Lille intensified recently. Although Lille initially sought around €100 million (£86 million) for Bouaddi, reports suggest City has negotiated the fee down to a range between €70 million and €80 million.

Life After Rodri

The timing of this signing coincides with a period of change for City’s midfield. With Rodri set to join Barcelona, Maresca views Bouaddi as a key piece for the team moving forward. Securing Bouaddi's personal terms was a significant step, leaving only the formal agreement on the transfer fee and payment details to finalize the deal.

Given Bouaddi's wish to join immediately, there is optimism that the transfer will conclude soon.

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• Everton vs. Lille – 15 August 2026, 16:00
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