Manchester City are in advanced talks to sign Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi for £85m. The 18-year-old impressed at the World Cup and would complement Elliot Anderson's box-to-box style.
What happened?
Manchester City are in advanced talks to sign Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi for £85m. The 18-year-old impressed at the World Cup and would complement Elliot Anderson's box-to-box style.
Why it matters for Manchester City
The signing of Bouaddi would be a significant coup for Manchester City, who are looking to strengthen their midfield. The 18-year-old has already impressed at the World Cup and has the potential to become a key player for the club.
What comes next?
Manchester City are expected to conclude the transfer this week after agreeing to sell Rodri to Barcelona. The club have also not given up hope of signing Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez, who is valued at £100m.
Manchester City have been linked with several high-profile signings this summer, including Bouaddi and Fernandez. The club are looking to strengthen their midfield and have been impressed by the 18-year-old's performances at the World Cup.
Bouaddi has already made a name for himself in European football, helping Lille defeat Real Madrid in the Champions League last season. He has also impressed at the World Cup, starting five of Morocco's six matches in their run to the quarter-finals.
The 18-year-old has played 88 times for Lille since making his debut in October 2023, three days after his 16th birthday. He has helped the club finish third in Ligue 1 last season and has been praised for his ability to step up to the big stage.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in Premier League, 78 pts, 23W-9D-6L from 38 games, recent form LDWWD.
