Manchester City are nearing a $115.3 million deal for Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi -Credit:DeFodi Images, DeFodi Images via Getty Images Manchester City are confident of securing Morocco star Ayyoub Bouaddi in an £85 million ($115.3 million) deal before the close of this week. Etihad executives have progressed negotiations with their Lille counterparts following the departure of Rodri to Barcelona. The teenage sensation has informed his club of his desire to join the English giants. It is understood that Bouaddi will sign a five-year deal with City, keeping him at the Etihad until at least 2031. Bouaddi, 18, has established himself as one of the most gifted and electrifying teenagers in global soccer, as per The Mirror.
Kylian Mbappe drops World Cup truth bomb after absurd third-place loss to England USMNT duo enjoy dream debuts as Wrexham’s season gets off to a rocky start -Credit:Neal Simpson/Allstar, Getty Images City officials kept a close eye on his development at this summer's FIFA World Cup, once it became apparent that Rodri would be heading back to Spain. Bouaddi made a strong impression at the tournament, starting five of Morocco's six matches in their run to the last eight. City chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak has been struck by Bouaddi's capacity to rise to the occasion as his blossoming career has progressed. Senior figures at the club believe Bouaddi's composure and ability to hold his own against more seasoned and experienced players make him a perfect fit for the City setup. Prior to the World Cup, Bouaddi played a pivotal role in Lille's stunning UEFA Champions League victory over Real Madrid in 2024, announcing himself on the biggest stage. To listen to the latest episode of 'All Out Soccer' - CLICK HERE New City boss Enzo Maresca views Bouaddi as the ideal long-term successor to Bernardo Silva, who departed for Real Madrid at the conclusion of last season. Bouaddi has featured 88 times for Lille since his debut in October 2023, just three days after his 16th birthday, and played a key role in their third-place Ligue 1 finish last season. He also surpassed a milestone previously held by Eden Hazard, reaching 50 Ligue 1 appearances for Lille at only 18 years old. City remain intent on securing a direct replacement for holding midfielder Rodri, though negotiations with Chelsea regarding a potential move for Enzo Fernandez have hit an impasse.