Ayyoub Bouaddi’s price soars to €130m amid Manchester City interest

Manchester City are reportedly prepared to pay up to €130 million for Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi as they look to strengthen their midfield and prepare for the possible departure of Rodri.

The 18-year-old Lille midfielder has become one of Europe’s most highly rated young players following his breakthrough season in France and his impressive performances for Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to Spanish outlet AS, Manchester City have identified Bouaddi as one of their main targets as they reshape their midfield for the future.

Bouaddi’s growing value

The reported €130m valuation represents a significant increase from earlier estimates of the Morocco international’s transfer fee.

Previous reports had suggested City were negotiating a deal worth between €90m and €100m, but the latest figure would make Bouaddi one of the most expensive young midfielders in football.

Bouaddi’s performances at the World Cup further strengthened his reputation, with the teenager earning praise for his composure and maturity in midfield as Morocco impressed on the global stage.

His emergence has also attracted interest from several leading European clubs, although Manchester City are reportedly now in pole position to secure his services.

City planning for life after Rodri

AS reports that Bouaddi could arrive at Manchester City alongside Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, whose reported €135m transfer has already been completed.

If both moves go through at the reported figures, City’s midfield rebuild could cost close to €270m.

The Premier League champions are understood to be preparing for the possibility of life without Rodri, whose potential departure has prompted the club to consider significant changes in midfield.

Bouaddi is therefore being viewed as part of City’s long-term plans, with his age and performances making him an attractive option for the club.

However, the transfer has not yet been finalised, with City still pushing to complete a deal for the Morocco star.

For Bouaddi, a move to the Premier League champions would represent another major step in a rapidly developing career that has seen him rise from Lille’s first team to becoming one of Morocco’s brightest young talents.