Manchester City are pressing ahead with plans to sign Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi as they prepare for significant changes in the centre of the pitch.
Discussions with the French club are believed to be progressing, with Lille placing a valuation of around €100 million, equivalent to £85.6 million, on the 18 year old Morocco international. City hope to finalise an agreement this week as Rodri moves closer to joining Barcelona.
Bouaddi has quickly developed into one of Europe’s most exciting young midfielders. He featured in five of Morocco’s six matches during their run to the World Cup quarter finals this summer and previously gained wider recognition after producing an impressive performance against Real Madrid in the Champions League in 2024.
The youngster has already accumulated 88 senior appearances for Lille since making his debut in October 2023, only days after turning 16. Last season, he also played an important role as Lille secured third place in Ligue 1.
His composure in deeper midfield positions could provide City with another option alongside Elliot Anderson, who recently arrived from Nottingham Forest and can operate in several central roles.
City also continue to monitor Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez. Chelsea currently expect the Argentina international to remain with them after their preferred deadline for receiving offers passed, although City’s interest has not disappeared ahead of the 1 September transfer deadline.
Rodri, meanwhile, is expected to complete a £65 million switch to Barcelona on a four year contract. The Spain captain made 298 appearances during seven successful seasons with City after arriving from Atletico Madrid for £62.8 million in 2019.
The 30 year old endured knee and hamstring problems across the previous two campaigns but returned strongly at the World Cup, guiding Spain to a second global crown while earning the player of the tournament award.
Should Bouaddi and Fernandez both arrive, City would complete a major midfield transformation alongside Anderson.
