Rabat – Manchester City are reportedly prepared to spend as much as €130 million to sign Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, marking a significant increase from previous estimates of the teenager’s transfer fee.
According to Spanish outlet AS, the Premier League champions are closing in on the Lille star as they continue planning for a future without Rodri, whose potential departure has forced the club to reshape its midfield.
The report claims City see Bouaddi as one of their priority targets after the 18-year-old impressed during Morocco’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, where he earned widespread praise for his composure and maturity in midfield.
The reported valuation represents a sharp rise from earlier reports, which suggested Manchester City were negotiating a deal worth between €90 million and €100 million.
AS says Bouaddi would arrive alongside Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, whose reported €135 million move has already been completed, with City’s midfield overhaul potentially costing close to €270 million.
Bouaddi has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after young midfielders following his breakthrough season with Lille and his performances for Morocco, attracting interest from several top clubs before Manchester City reportedly moved into pole position.
While the deal has not yet been finalized, the Spanish outlet maintains that City are pushing ahead with the transfer as they prepare for life after Rodri.
