Ayyoub Bouaddi gives green light to Manchester City move as Lille talks near conclusion

Manchester City are close to reaching a landmark agreement with Lille for the transfer of 18-year-old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with the deal expected to be worth about €110m plus a further €5m in bonuses.

Lille’s directors are expected to officially announce the departure of their highly rated young player in the next few hours. The agreement between the two clubs is currently described as a deal in principle, with negotiations now at the final stage as the parties work through the remaining contractual details.

Bouaddi has attracted interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs but has made clear that he wants to join Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City squad. The Morocco midfielder has been convinced by the sporting project offered by the Premier League club and has already given his approval for the transfer to go ahead.

The proposed fee would make Bouaddi one of the most expensive sales in Ligue 1 history, despite his age. Manchester City, meanwhile, would secure a player regarded as a major talent for the future and one capable of making an immediate contribution in midfield.

The agreement still needs to be completed formally, but the key elements of the transfer are understood to be in place. Discussions are focused on finalising the terms of the contract before the move can be confirmed.

For Lille, the deal would represent a major financial return on one of the club’s most promising young players. For Manchester City, it would underline their willingness to invest heavily in emerging talent while adding another midfielder to Guardiola’s long-term plans.

Bouaddi’s preference for Manchester City has played an important role in the negotiations. Although he was pursued by leading clubs across Europe, the player’s decision to accept City’s proposal has helped move the discussions towards a conclusion.

At 18, Bouaddi is set to take the next significant step of his career with one of Europe’s leading clubs. The size of the proposed transfer makes the move a particularly notable one in the French market, while City believe the midfielder can develop into an influential figure at the Etihad Stadium for many years to come.

The final contractual details are now being settled between Lille, Manchester City and the player. Once those discussions are complete, Lille are expected to make the transfer official.