Manchester City close to agreement for Morocco’s Bouaddi as Lille demand huge fee

Manchester City are reportedly edging closer to signing Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, although negotiations with Lille remain unresolved as the French club continues to demand a substantial transfer fee for one of its prized assets.

According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, the Premier League champions have already reached a verbal agreement with the Morocco international over personal terms, including his salary and the length of his contract.

However, discussions between the two clubs are still ongoing, with Lille determined to maximise the value of a player who has emerged as one of the most sought-after talents in European football.

Manchester City move ahead in race

Bouadi’s performances for both Lille and Morocco, particularly during the 2026 World Cup, have attracted interest from several leading European clubs.

Despite the competition, Manchester City are believed to be leading the race after making significant progress in negotiations and agreeing terms with the player.

Plettenberg reports that a number of elite clubs continue to monitor the midfielder’s situation, but City’s financial strength and early groundwork have placed them in pole position.

Lille insist Morocco star is not for sale

Lille president Olivier Létang has acknowledged the growing interest in Bouadi but insists the midfielder remains fully committed to the French club.

“There are very few clubs that can afford Ayoub at the moment,” Létang said when asked about speculation surrounding the player’s future.

The Lille chief stressed that, despite receiving offers, no agreement has been reached with any interested club.

“The only fact today is that Ayoub is a 100 percent Lille player. Yes, there were official offers already, but they were not satisfactory at all, because Ayoub is a very important and pivotal player for us and for our sporting project.”

Lille reject offers below valuation

Reports suggest Lille are demanding more than €100 million to consider selling the Moroccan midfielder, underlining the importance they place on the player.

Létang dismissed suggestions that a deal is close, reiterating that the offers submitted so far have fallen well short of the club’s expectations.

For now, Bouadi remains a Lille player, but Manchester City’s pursuit appears to be gathering momentum as the English champions seek to secure one of African football’s brightest young stars before the transfer window closes.

Whether City can meet Lille’s financial demands could ultimately determine if the move becomes one of the biggest transfers of the summer.