Manchester City have identified Lille’s 18‑year‑old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi as a priority target for the upcoming transfer window.
Bouaddi impressed throughout a breakout season in France and earned a prominent role for Morocco at the recent World Cup, drawing attention from several top clubs.
Enzo Maresca believes the youngster possesses the readiness to join City’s first‑team squad immediately, rather than requiring another season on loan.
Negotiations have reportedly secured personal terms with the player, while an agreement with Lille on transfer conditions remains to be finalized.
City is prepared to present an offer in the region of €90 million, coupled with a contract that would keep Bouaddi at the club until 2031.
Lille retains control of the discussion, emphasizing that the French side has no pressing need to sell and may seek a higher valuation given interest from multiple European teams.
Director of football Hugo Viana has praised Bouaddi’s technical skill, tactical awareness and physical readiness for the Premier League, outlining a plan to integrate him directly into Maresca’s lineup.
The proposed fee represents a significant investment in a player still in development, and its justification hinges on providing Bouaddi with meaningful playing time rather than treating him as mere depth.
City must navigate potential competition and Lille’s price expectations to secure the prospect without inflating the cost beyond its projected on‑field value.
