Man City Nears Signing of Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille

Manchester City is advancing towards signing 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille as they prepare for life after Rodri's departure. The club has been in negotiations with Lille, with personal terms already agreed upon.

Lille values Bouaddi at around £85 million (€100 million). According to Fabrizio Romano on X, the deal is set to be finalized after Manchester City sold Rodri to Barcelona for about £65 million.

Rodri, who has had seven successful seasons at the Etihad, is expected to complete his transfer to Barcelona soon. Bouaddi is seen as a crucial part of Manchester City's midfield rebuild and could arrive in Manchester immediately rather than staying in France for another season.

Manager Enzo Maresca has indicated that further midfield additions are anticipated before the transfer window closes, making Bouaddi a significant acquisition for the club's new era.