Man City in advanced talks for midfielder Bouaddi

What the report says

Manchester City are in advanced talks with Lille over a move for Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to BBC Sport Football. The Premier League club are said to want to wrap up the transfer this week, following agreement to sell Rodri to Barcelona.

Bouaddi, 18, is reported to be valued by Lille at 100 million euros, which BBC Sport notes is about £85.6m. The teenager has already become an important player for Lille, making 88 appearances since his debut in October 2023, just after his 16th birthday, and he helped the French side finish third in Ligue 1 last season.

BBC Sport also highlights Bouaddi’s rise on the international and European stage. He started five of Morocco’s six matches during their run to the World Cup quarter-finals, and had earlier attracted attention through his role in Lille’s Champions League win over Real Madrid in 2024. He is described as a deep-lying midfielder who could fit alongside summer signing Elliot Anderson.

The possible deal comes as City reshape their midfield after Rodri’s expected move to Barcelona. BBC Sport adds that City’s interest in Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez may be affected, though the report says manager Enzo Maresca remains keen on the Argentina international. More broadly, the story reflects how elite clubs are moving early for young, high-value midfield talent in the transfer market.