Mercato: Manchester City not backing down on Ayyoub Bouaddi

The Citizens ramp up pressure on Lille to land the Moroccan gem

Africa 27 July 2026 at 08:51

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Mercato: Manchester City not backing down on Ayyoub Bouaddi

Manchester City is not giving up on the Ayyoub Bouaddi file. According to Fabrizio Romano, the English club is continuing direct negotiations with Lille in an effort to sign the 18-year-old midfielder.

The talks aren't limited to Lille's management. City is also actively negotiating with the player and his entourage. In this transfer window, the Citizens have emerged as the most determined club to land the young Moroccan star.

🚨🇲🇦 Manchester City are continuing direct talks between the two clubs with Lille for the Ayyoub Bouaddi deal.

Negotiations are ongoing with the player and the club, as #MCFC remains the most interested club in Bouaddi.

The big question: will Ayyoub join now or in June 2027? 🩵🔛 pic.twitter.com/OoXEgULy92
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) 27 July 2026

Two options are on the table.

The first would see an immediate transfer this summer to bolster City's midfield. The second scenario would have Bouaddi finish the season with Lille before making his final move to Manchester in June 2027.

Lille's president has confirmed his desire to keep the midfielder for another season despite interest from Europe's elite. However, City's persistence could tip the scales. According to The Guardian, the English champions are ready to put €100 million on the table to secure Bouaddi's signature.