Manchester City have moved closer to securing one of European football’s most sought-after young midfielders, with talks over a deal for Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi now described as advanced.
The 18-year-old Moroccan international has become one of the breakout names of the 2026 World Cup, starting regularly for his country and impressing against Brazil in a performance that raised his profile across Europe. His emergence alongside fellow young talent Bilal El Khannouss has strengthened Morocco’s midfield options heading into the tournament.
Standing around 1.85 metres, Bouaddi has established himself as a physically imposing, athletic midfielder capable of covering ground and performing under pressure, qualities that have made him a fixture for both Lille and Morocco. His rise has been closely tied to his role within the Atlas Lions, where he has emerged as a key figure for the national team’s midfield.
City’s interest is not new, but the situation has shifted quickly since the World Cup. Reports now describe direct, club-to-club discussions between City and Lille, with personal terms reportedly agreed in principle on a long-term contract, some sources suggesting a five-year deal.
Several outlets have gone further, claiming a full verbal agreement with the player himself, even as the financial structure between the two clubs remains unresolved. Sources close to the negotiations describe an agreement between the clubs as imminent, with details over bonuses and payment terms still being finalized.
The fee remains the central sticking point. Bouaddi’s valuation has repeatedly been linked to a symbolic 100 million euro figure, roughly 85 to 87.5 million pounds.
City are believed willing to offer up to 90 million euros as a fixed fee, while Lille are pushing for the full 100 million through add-ons, guarantees and performance-based bonuses.
Earlier estimates placed his price between 69 and 86 million pounds, but that figure has climbed steadily since his World Cup performances confirmed his ceiling at the highest level.
Should the deal go through at the reported valuation, it would represent a record sale for Lille and rank among City’s most expensive acquisitions.
Lille’s hierarchy, though, remains reluctant. President Olivier Létang has declined to confirm any asking price publicly, while indicating a preference to keep Bouaddi for at least one more season.
Coach Davide Ancelotti has acknowledged the talks with City but admitted he would prefer to see the move collapse, underlining the tension between financial reality and sporting ambition at the club.
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