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Manchester City Reaches Personal Terms with Lille Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi Amid Rodri's Exit

Manchester City is close to securing a significant summer signing after agreeing personal terms with Lille and Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old has become a top target for Enzo Maresca as the club prepares for major changes in midfield following Rodri's move to Barcelona.

Swift Progress in Transfer Talks

City has made strong progress in signing Bouaddi, who is eager to join the Premier League champions without delay. His performances in both Ligue 1 and international play have drawn attention, making him a priority addition before the season starts in less than 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

Over the 2025-26 season, Bouaddi became a regular starter for Lille, starting 35 matches and coming off the bench in five across Ligue 1 and the Europa League. His ability to control the game from deep positions and his physical presence have earned him comparisons to elite midfielders. On the international stage, he started five matches for Morocco at just 18 years old during the World Cup.

Maresca's Midfield Overhaul

The addition of Bouaddi would push City's summer spending close to £200 million, following the £116 million acquisition of Elliott Anderson from Nottingham Forest. Negotiations with Lille have intensified, with initial asking prices near €100 million (£86m) reportedly reduced to a range between €70 million and €80 million.

  • Player: Ayyoub Bouaddi
  • Age: 18
  • Current Club: Lille
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Appearances (2025-26): 35 starts, 5 subs
  • International Caps: 5 World Cup starts for Morocco
  • Estimated Transfer Fee: €70-80 million
  • Previous Signing: Elliott Anderson for £116 million

Life After Rodri

With Rodri set to officially join Barcelona soon, Enzo Maresca views Bouaddi as vital for rebuilding City's midfield. The final steps involve ironing out payment details between the clubs, but given Bouaddi's wish to move immediately, optimism remains high for a swift completion.

Upcoming Fixtures

  • Everton vs. Lille: 15 August 2026, 16:00
  • Arsenal vs. Manchester City (Community Shield): 16 August 2026, 16:00

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