Manchester City Reaches Personal Terms with Lille Midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi as Enzo Maresca Plans for Rodri’s Exit

Manchester City Nears Signing of Lille's Ayyoub Bouaddi

Manchester City has agreed on personal terms with Lille’s promising midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, as the club prepares for life after Rodri, who is set to join Barcelona. The Morocco international, just 18 years old, has become a top target for manager Enzo Maresca amid a significant midfield revamp ahead of the new Premier League season.

Swift Progress in Transfer Talks

The deal with Bouaddi is close to completion, with the player eager to make the move to the Etihad Stadium immediately rather than waiting until 2027. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X that personal terms have been settled and only the agreement between Manchester City and Lille remains to finalize the transfer.

“Ayyoub Bouaddi and his camp have now reached an agreement on personal terms with Manchester City. #MCFC expected to seal the deal with Lille as next step, already advanced as Bouaddi preference would be to join City NOW — rather than in 2027.”

Bouaddi's Rising Profile

During the 2025-26 season, Bouaddi solidified his role at Lille, starting 35 matches and appearing five times as a substitute across Ligue 1 and the Europa League. His command in midfield and physical presence have drawn comparisons to some of football’s elite players. On the international stage, he impressed with five starts for Morocco during the World Cup at such a young age.

Maresca’s Midfield Overhaul

This potential signing adds to City's heavy summer spending, which could reach around £200 million. This follows their earlier £116 million acquisition of Elliott Anderson from Nottingham Forest. Negotiations with Lille have intensified; while Lille initially sought €100 million (£86 million), City seems ready to offer between €70 million and €80 million to close the deal.

Transition After Rodri

With Rodri’s transfer to Barcelona imminent, Maresca sees Bouaddi as a vital piece in reshaping the squad’s midfield. Finalizing the transfer now depends on the payment agreement between the clubs. Since Bouaddi prefers to join immediately, there is optimism the move will be completed soon.

Upcoming Fixtures

• Everton vs. Lille: 15 Aug 2026, 16:00
• Arsenal vs. Manchester City (Community Shield): 16 Aug 2026, 16:00