Morocco youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi eager to join Manchester City

Manchester City have stepped up their pursuit of highly-rated Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi, with the young midfielder reportedly keen on securing a move to the Premier League champions this summer.

The Citizens are actively looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season and have identified the Lille starlet as one of the club’s priority midfield targets. Bouaddi has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents after enjoying a breakthrough campaign for both club and country.

According to reports, negotiations are currently underway between Manchester City and French Ligue 1 side Lille over a potential transfer. While discussions between the two clubs continue, City are also preparing an official offer in a bid to convince Lille to part ways with one of their most prized assets.

Bouaddi is eager to make the switch to the Etihad Stadium. The Morocco international is understood to be enthusiastic about the opportunity to play under Pep Guardiola and compete for major honours with one of Europe’s most successful clubs.

The teenager’s stock has risen significantly following his outstanding performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bouaddi played a key role in Morocco’s impressive run to the quarter-finals, where the Atlas Lions eventually bowed out to France. His composure in possession, intelligent movement, passing accuracy and maturity beyond his years drew widespread praise from fans, pundits and scouts across Europe.

Manchester City’s interest in Bouaddi has been growing for months, with the club viewing him as a long-term investment capable of developing into one of the finest midfielders of his generation. Guardiola is believed to be an admirer of the youngster’s technical quality, tactical intelligence and versatility, qualities that fit perfectly into City’s style of play.

In a significant boost to City’s hopes of completing the deal, Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly withdrawn from the race for Bouaddi’s signature. The French champions had previously been linked with the Moroccan midfielder, but they are no longer pursuing a move, leaving Manchester City with one fewer major rival.

Despite the growing optimism at the Etihad, Lille are expected to negotiate firmly before sanctioning the departure of one of their brightest academy products. The Ligue 1 club value Bouaddi highly and are unlikely to let him leave without receiving an offer that reflects his enormous potential.

With the player eager to join Manchester City, negotiations progressing between the two clubs and PSG no longer in contention, the Premier League giants will hope to reach an agreement with Lille and complete the signing of one of Morocco’s brightest young stars before the summer transfer window closes.