Morocco star Bouaddi urged to stay at Lille amid Manchester City interest

Lille supporters have made an emotional appeal to Moroccan international Ayyoub Bouaddi to remain at the French club as interest from Manchester City intensifies.

The 18-year-old midfielder has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents this summer, with several leading clubs reportedly monitoring his situation.

Manchester City are believed to have moved to the front of the queue and are reportedly closing in on an agreement with Lille for the Moroccan’s transfer.

Lille demand huge fee for Moroccan youngster

According to Footmercato, the proposed deal could be worth €100 million or more, with Lille seeking a substantial fee for a player who has developed through their academy and established himself at senior level at a remarkably young age.

Bouaddi’s rapid rise has made him one of the most highly rated young midfielders in European football, while his progress has also brought increased attention to Morocco’s emerging generation of international talent.

But while a move to the Premier League could represent the next major step in his career, Lille supporters are hoping their relationship with the youngster will persuade him to remain in France.

Fans chant for Bouaddi to stay

At a fan signing event on Wednesday, Bouaddi spent about 45 minutes signing autographs and posing for photographs with supporters.

Some fans used the opportunity to make their feelings known, chanting phrases including “Bouaddi in Lille” and “Ayyoub, stay.”

The reaction underlined the affection supporters have for the midfielder, who joined Lille’s academy before progressing into the first team and becoming an important part of the club’s plans.

For Lille, losing Bouaddi would mean parting company with a player viewed as one of the brightest products of their youth system in recent years.

Manchester City offer a different path

The wishes of Lille’s supporters, however, could ultimately come up against Bouaddi’s ambitions and Manchester City’s plans.

The Premier League champions reportedly view the Moroccan as an important part of their efforts to strengthen and reshape their midfield.

A move to England would give Bouaddi the opportunity to work at one of Europe’s leading clubs and continue his development at the highest level, but it would also bring an end to his journey at Lille if the reported agreement is completed.

With negotiations said to be advancing, Lille fans could have only a short window remaining to convince their academy graduate to stay.

For Morocco, Bouaddi’s potential move to Manchester City would also represent another significant step in the rise of a young midfielder already attracting major European attention.