Manchester City’s Ayoub Bouaddi pursuit remains in doubt as Lille hold firm

Manchester City have yet to meet Lille’s asking price for Moroccan midfielder Ayoub Bouaddi, according to The Athletic journalist David Ornstein, leaving the proposed summer transfer unresolved.

A number of reports had suggested that Bouaddi could move to Manchester City as a replacement for Rodri, who transferred to Barcelona this summer. However, negotiations between the clubs have not yet reached a successful conclusion, with Lille’s valuation remaining the central issue.

Speaking to TNT, Ornstein said Manchester City had made significant efforts to complete the deal but had not agreed terms with the French club.

“Manchester City have not reached the price Lille are asking for. Of course, they have made a big effort and they may still succeed in completing the deal, but as of now that has not happened yet…”

The comments indicate that the transfer remains possible, although there is currently no agreement in place. Manchester City’s interest has been widely reported, but Lille’s demands have so far prevented the move from being finalised during the current summer transfer window.

Bouaddi, who plays in midfield for Lille, had been linked with taking on the role left by Rodri following the Spain international’s move to Barcelona. The reports had positioned the Moroccan as a potential solution for Manchester City, but the clubs remain apart over the financial terms of the proposed transfer.

Ornstein was also asked whether Manchester City might turn to Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez instead of continuing with the Bouaddi negotiations.

He said Manchester City were genuinely interested in Fernandez, but Chelsea would only consider selling the Argentina international if the conditions were right for the Stamford Bridge club.

“They really want him and it is possible, but the Blues will only sell him if the terms are right for them. The deadline they set has passed. So I do not think it would be for the same price now as it was before the deadline.”

That means the cost of a potential deal for Fernandez could now differ from the figure previously under consideration, following the expiry of Chelsea’s deadline. Ornstein’s comments suggest Manchester City have alternatives in mind, but neither the Bouaddi transfer nor a move for Fernandez has been completed.

For now, Lille’s asking price continues to stand between Bouaddi and a move to Manchester City. While the Premier League club may still reach an agreement with Lille, the midfielder’s transfer remains uncertain as negotiations continue.