City close in on €100m Bouaddi deal

Manchester City are on the verge of signing Lille sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi in a deal worth around €100 million, with French outlets reporting that an agreement is essentially complete. The 18‑year‑old Moroccan midfielder, who impressed at the last World Cup, was left out of Lille’s squad for their Ligue 1 opener against Angers as negotiations accelerated. Sporting coordinator Sylvain Armand confirmed that only minor details remain, with LOSC expected to receive €95 million plus €5 million in add‑ons.

Bouaddi is widely regarded as one of the most coveted young talents in world football, and City view him as the ideal long‑term replacement for Rodri following the Spaniard’s high‑profile move to Barcelona. Lille have remained silent publicly, urging patience until the final paperwork is completed. Barring late complications, Bouaddi’s transfer marks one of the most significant youth‑driven deals in recent Premier League history.