Manchester City's plans for a new midfield era could bring Ayyoub Bouaddi closer to the Premier League.
According to The Telegraph, City are preparing to accelerate their pursuit of the Moroccan international after agreeing to sell Rodri to Barcelona, with the 18-year-old Lille midfielder emerging as one of the club's preferred targets.
Rodri's Departure Opens the Door
Rodri's seven-year spell at Manchester City is now approaching its conclusion, with the Spanish midfielder set to complete his move to Barcelona after undergoing his medical.
His departure leaves a significant space in City's midfield, increasing the importance of their search for a player capable of contributing immediately while also representing a long-term investment.
Bouaddi has emerged as one of the names attracting serious attention.
Bouaddi's Rise Continues
The Moroccan teenager enjoyed an impressive season with Lille before further raising his profile during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His maturity, technical ability, and composure in midfield have placed him firmly among Europe's most exciting young talents, with several major clubs monitoring his situation.
The Telegraph reports that Lille value Bouaddi at approximately £85.5 million, underlining just how highly the French club regard their young midfielder.
Maresca Keeps His Cards Close
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca was asked directly about Bouaddi following Sunday's Community Shield defeat to Arsenal.
His response was brief but telling.
- “He is still a Lille player,” Maresca said.
Maresca also made clear that City's transfer plans were already established before the defeat, insisting that the club's recruitment strategy would not be dictated by one result.
- “We knew already before the game of the things that we need to do.”
The City boss added that the club remains “quite clear” about the areas it wants to strengthen before the transfer window closes.
City Building a New Midfield
Manchester City have already made a major investment in midfield this summer, signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116 million.
However, Rodri's impending departure could convince the club to make another significant move, with Bouaddi potentially becoming a central part of the next generation at the Etihad.
At just 18, the Moroccan would offer City both immediate potential and enormous room for development.
A Major Opportunity for Bouaddi
Bouaddi's rise has been remarkable.
From emerging as one of Lille's brightest young players to representing Morocco on the world's biggest stage, the midfielder has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting talents of his generation.
Now, with Manchester City preparing for life after Rodri, another major chapter could be approaching.
For Bouaddi, the road from Morocco's rising generation to one of Europe's biggest clubs could be taking another spectacular turn.