Manchester City have entered the pursuit of Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, proposing a deal that would see the player remain with the French club for another season before a potential transfer in 2027, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano. The development presents a challenge to both Arsenal and Chelsea, who have also expressed interest in the 18-year-old.
Bouaddi has quickly risen to prominence since emerging from Lille’s youth system in 2023, accumulating 96 appearances for the Ligue 1 side. His performances for Morocco at the recent World Cup, notably in a 1-1 draw against Brazil, have further enhanced his reputation. The central midfielder is currently valued between €60million and €70m (£51.7m to £60.3m), though Lille have indicated they are not actively seeking a sale this summer.
Arsenal have already initiated discussions with Lille regarding a potential transfer, as reported by The Times, while talkSPORT claims Chelsea are also monitoring the situation. City’s proposal differs by offering Lille the opportunity to retain Bouaddi for an additional season, potentially delaying his move to the Premier League until 2027. Romano detailed that this is the ‘starting idea’ for Manchester City, with further conversations expected.
This potential move for Bouaddi comes as Manchester City are also nearing the completion of a club-record €134m (£116m) transfer for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. Anderson has been a standout performer in the Premier League, contributing to Forest’s survival and representing England at the World Cup. City are also reportedly interested in Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali, though they face competition from Arsenal for the Italian international. The club has also agreed terms with Enzo Maresca to replace Pep Guardiola as head coach, with Maresca expected to sign a three-year contract after a compensation package was agreed with Chelsea.
