According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City remain in direct negotiations with Lille over a deal for highly rated midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi as they step up their pursuit of one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
According to Fabrizio Romano, talks between the two clubs are ongoing, while Manchester City are also continuing discussions with the player’s representatives.
The Premier League giants remain the club showing the strongest interest in the 18-year-old and are determined to position themselves at the front of the race for his signature.
A key decision now rests with Bouaddi himself. The Morocco international is weighing up whether to join Manchester City this summer or remain at Lille for another season before making the move in June 2027, a scenario that would allow him to continue his development with regular first-team football.
His stock has risen dramatically following his breakthrough campaign with Lille and a series of impressive displays for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup.
His performances have established him as one of the most exciting young midfielders in Europe, with Lille reportedly valuing him at between €80 million and €100 million.
Manchester City view Bouaddi as another long-term investment in elite young talent, and negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days as both clubs seek to reach an agreement and the player considers the timing of the next step in his career.
