In a recent report, The Daily Mail stated that Manchester City are close to agreeing on a move for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi this summer. It has been mentioned that the Mancunian club are on the brink of clinching a deal to bring the Morocco international to the Etihad Stadium this off-season.
Bouaddi’s Impressive Rise In Ligue 1
Bouaddi enjoyed a solid campaign at the French club recently as he produced a string of impressive displays for them in the middle of the park. The 18-year-old participated in 42 matches for Lille last season, picking up one assist in all competitions.
At the moment, the Moroccan whizkid is among the best young central midfielders in Ligue 1. Hence, Man City would do well to get a deal over the line for him in this transfer period.
His current contract at the French club will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it tough for the Mancunian club to land him on the cheap this off-season.
GUADALUPE, MEXICO – JUNE 29: Ayyoub Bouaddi #6 of Morocco controls the ball against Frenkie de Jong #21 of the Netherlands during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Netherlands and Morocco at Monterrey Stadium on June 29, 2026 in Guadalupe, Mexico. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Manchester City Are Close To Agreeing On A Move For Bouaddi: Is He A Prospect For The Future?
Bouaddi is a good tackler of the ball and can scan the danger well to make some crucial interceptions for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when needed and is a good passer as well from midfield.
The Moroccan talent is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also function as a defensive midfielder or as a right-back if required. Bouaddi has already proven himself to be a decent performer in Ligue 1. However, it remains to be seen whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League if Man City manage to sign him in this transfer period.
We can expect Bouaddi to bring more bite and steel to Enzo Maresca’s midfield in the long run. He has what it takes to serve as a good replacement for Rodri at the Mancunian club.
At 18, Bouaddi has the potential to be a future star in English football as long as he continues to improve with each year. He will also help Man City compete across all fronts in the coming years. With all things considered, Bouaddi is a prospect to watch out for in the long run, so Maresca should focus on bringing him on board this month.