Rabat – Manchester City remain in talks with Lille over a move for Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi despite already strengthening their midfield with England international Elliot Anderson.
According to Sky Sports, personal terms have been agreed with the 18-year-old for some time, while City and Lille continue negotiations over a transfer fee. No agreement between the clubs has yet been announced.
City officially signed Anderson from Nottingham Forest in July on a five-year contract. The club describes the 23-year-old primarily as an energetic box-to-box midfielder, a profile that helps explain why his arrival has not ended their pursuit of Bouaddi.
Sky Sports football writer Laura Hunter explained that Bouaddi is viewed differently. The Moroccan operates primarily as a deep-lying controller and tactical anchor, making his role closer to Rodri’s than Anderson’s.
Bouaddi led Lille for possession wins last season with 151 and averaged a team-high 5.8 recoveries per 90 minutes.
His ability to receive possession under pressure, carry the ball forward and control the tempo from deeper areas has attracted City’s attention.
Potential long-term Rodri replacement
The interest also comes with uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s future.
Barcelona have explored a move for the Spain captain, although Sky Sports reported this week that City currently do not consider negotiations active after rejecting an opening proposal worth around $40 million.
Rodri has one year remaining on his contract, and City would prefer him to sign an extension.
Bouaddi is therefore not necessarily being recruited only because Rodri could leave immediately. City are rebuilding their midfield for the longer term following Bernardo Silva’s departure and want greater depth for a campaign that could involve more than 60 matches.
New coach Enzo Maresca reportedly believes Bouaddi is already capable of contributing in the Premier League rather than requiring a long development period.
The Lille academy graduate made his senior debut shortly after turning 16 and has already accumulated extensive first-team experience.
He also impressed for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, particularly against Brazil, strengthening his reputation as one of Europe’s leading young midfield talents.
Lille extended Bouaddi’s contract in December 2025 until June 2029, leaving the French club in a strong negotiating position.
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