Manchester City begin talks for Real Madrid key target’s potential successor – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid continue to be one of the busiest clubs in the transfer market this summer. Club president Florentino Perez is determined to avoid another season without a major trophy and is prepared to invest heavily to provide Jose Mourinho with the squad he wants.

Following the arrivals of Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate, and Denzel Dumfries, Real Madrid could soon complete the signing of Yan Diomande.

Meanwhile, a move for Manchester City and Spain superstar Rodri is also in the works.

Ayyoub Bouaddi identified as replacement

Given that the 30-year-old is in the final year of his contract and has shown no willingness to renew, Manchester City could be forced to sell, although they would want a replacement before pressing ahead with his departure.

Real Madrid could lure Rodri away from Man City. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

The Cityzens recently completed the signing of Elliot Anderson for €135 million to strengthen their midfield, but the departure of Rodri would require another addition.

According to reports in England, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Manchester City’s preferred replacement is Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.

The 18-year-old, born in France but capped by Morocco at the recent World Cup, has established himself as a regular starter over the past two seasons and has attracted widespread attention with his performances.

World Cup performances raise profile

Bouaddi was one of the standout young players at the World Cup. His athleticism, ability to carry the ball through midfield and capacity to break defensive lines with both his passing and dribbling impressed throughout the tournament.

Briefly, even Real Madrid showed interest in the teenage Moroccan international, but have since shifted their focus to Rodri.

Bouaddi impressed at the World Cup. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Manchester City are prepared to meet Lille’s asking price of around €100 million for Bouaddi.

However, the club have yet to decide whether to bring him in immediately or complete the transfer now before allowing him to remain at Lille for another season.

That decision will depend largely on what happens with Rodri.

Rodri open to Spain return

The Spain international, who was crowned world champion just over a week ago, is open to joining Real Madrid.

Despite his past ties to Atletico Madrid, Rodri has previously stated that it would not prevent him from making the move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Although City manager Enzo Maresca has made it clear that he wants Rodri to remain at the club, a substantial offer combined with the player’s desire to return to Spain could change the situation.