It seems that Manchester City are close to signing a midfielder they desperately need due to Rodri’s situation | OneFootball

Manchester City continues to push to complete a deal to sign 18-year-old midfield sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille. Bouaddi’s ability to play as a number six, with his already elite tactical ability, plus his elegance, quality and composure in possession, makes the Moroccan international seem like the ideal addition to Manchester City’s midfield. Two reports indicate that City are increasingly confident of agreeing a deal with Lille to sign Bouaddi. Given the situation surrounding Rodri, it is imperative that City sign Bouaddi. It may now only be a matter of time before City sign a player who has the potential to be a mainstay of their midfield.

Manchester City are hopeful of wrapping up the signing of Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille.

Fabrizio Romano has reported that Manchester City are confident of wrapping up the signing of Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille in the next few days. Furthermore, Romano reports that negotiations between the two clubs have accelerated this week. Lastly, Romano reports that it depends on what happens with Rodri and other outgoings at City, whether or not Bouaddi will join Enzo Maresca’s squad this season or spend the 2026-27 season on loan at Lille. Given the Rodri situation, it is highly unlikely that Manchester City would loan out Bouaddi.

Sacha Tavolieri has also provided an update on Manchester City’s bid to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi for Sky Sports. Tavolieri reports that City have made significant progress in their negotiations with Lille to sign the Moroccan midfield sensation. Furthermore, Tavolieri reports that Lille are demanding €100 million to sell Bouaddi this summer. Manchester City are hopeful that a deal can be concluded for €90 million plus add-ons. Lastly, Tavolieri reports that Ayyoub Bouaddi has already agreed personal terms with City and his contract will run until June 2031 if he signs for the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders.

It is imperative that City sign Bouaddi so they are covered in case Rodri departs for Real Madrid.

Manchester City have a host of business to complete before the summer transfer window closes. Completing a deal to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi is the top priority for Hugo Viana currently. Enzo Maresca’s squad needs another midfielder to add to the equation. Ayyoub Bouaddi looms as a player that can potentially replace Rodri in the number six role. Bouaddi is a different type of player to Rodri, however he is well and truly accomplished enough to play a pivotal role for Enzo Maresca’s side.

The Rodri situation does force Manchester City’s hand in a sense. City will want a deal for Bouaddi concluded before they address Rodri’s future. Rodri continues to be heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid. City will not sanction Rodri’s sale if they do not have Bouaddi signed. That would be counterproductive and could also see Lille drive up Bouaddi’s price knowing that City would be desperate to sign the Moroccan international. The quicker City can wrap up negotiations with Lille, the sooner they can move onto other business.

Fortunately, it seems that a deal between Manchester City and Lille for Ayyoub Bouaddi may only be days away from completion. That would be big for City, and given the Rodri situation, the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders could have Rodri’s long-term replacement on board before they move on to addressing Rodri’s future.