11 hours ago
5
Real Madrid interest
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Manchester City are the frontrunners to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi with the Lille midfielder expected to make a decision on his future soon. The 18-year-old is one of the most promising midfield talents in the world and his stock skyrocketed after an impressive World Cup with Morocco. According to the Athletic, Man City are pushing hard for Bouaddi with their intention for him to move to England this summer, rather than at the end of the upcoming season.
It’s understood that Lille’s asking price for their prized asset is around €100 million which has deterred some suitors, but City are more comfortable with that price tag than rival clubs. Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid and PSG all monitored Bouaddi’s development last season but aren’t expected to firm up their interest with an official offer. Meanwhile, City are determined to secure his signature as they revamp their midfield options after signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a club record fee of €135m.
Why Manchester City want Ayyoub Bouaddi
It's abundantly clear that City's priority in the market is to improve their midfield options as evidenced by the acquisition of Anderson and Bouaddi is their next priority target. Bernardo Silva departed this summer for Real Madrid, while there's also fears that Rodri could follow to the Spanish giants with no breakthrough on contract talks with his deal expiring in 2027. There's also doubts over the futures of Nico González, Tijjani Reijnders and Mateo Kovacic so Enzo Maresca is clearly wanting to strength his central midfielder ranks.
Bouaddi is an exceptional talent as everyone with knowledge of French football were already aware of his potential but he truly announced himself to the worldwide stage at the World Cup. The teenager was one of Morocco's best players and he's incredibly composed in possession, while being skilled at winning the ball back. Bouaddi is currently the second most valuable U18 star with a market value of €50 million but that will rise substantially in the upcoming market value update.
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