Manchester City are reportedly set to sign 18-year-old Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi for €100 million. The deal would see the Frenchman join the Premier League club on a five-year contract.
Transfer Rumours
Sports daily L’Equipe and RMC radio reported that Bouaddi is on the brink of a move to City for €100 million ($117 million). Lille’s sports coordinator Sylvain Armand said on Ligue1+ that “things have progressed well concerning his departure” and that the club had prepared for a week without him. He added that the president would announce the final details when the time comes, indicating the deal is “not far away.”
Lille's Position
Bouaddi was left out of Lille’s squad for the opening game of the season, a 2-0 win at Angers, yet he joined the team in the pre-match warm-up. The midfielder has been a key figure in Lille’s academy since 2021 and became the youngest player to appear in a European competition when he played in a Europa Conference League match against KI Klaksvík just three days after his 16th birthday.
City’s Perspective
City’s manager Enzo Maresca was asked about the imminent arrival of Bouaddi after the club’s 2-1 win over Bournemouth. He replied, “I didn’t see anyone at the club. After the press conference I will see them. I don’t know if there is any update at the moment … we’ll see.” City is actively seeking a long-term replacement for former Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who recently joined Barcelona.
Youth Career Highlights
Bouaddi first caught attention two years ago when he was touted as Lille’s best midfielder since Eden Hazard, who left to become a Premier League star with Chelsea. His performances for Morocco at the World Cup showcased his assured touch, tactical understanding and maturity, qualities that have drawn City’s interest.
Lille’s Selling History
Lille has a history of selling top talent for significant fees. The club sold Ivory Coast forward Nicolas Pépé to Arsenal in 2019 for €80 million and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen to Napoli the following year for a similar amount.
The transfer window remains open, and the final confirmation of Bouaddi’s move to Manchester City will depend on the completion of negotiations and the official announcement by Lille’s president. The potential signing would add a promising young talent to City’s midfield as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming Premier League season.
