Key Takeaways:
- Lille have set a €100m asking price for Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to The Athletic
- Manchester City are leading the chase for the 18-year-old Moroccan international this summer
- City plan to keep Bouaddi at the Etihad Stadium if they secure his signature, rather than loaning him back to Lille
Lille Set Steep Valuation for Rising Star
Lille are reportedly demanding a fee in the region of €100m for their talented midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old, who was born in France and represents Morocco internationally, has attracted significant attention as the summer transfer window approaches. Manchester City are currently seen as the frontrunners in the pursuit of Bouaddi’s signature.
🚨 AYYOUB BOUADDI 🇲🇦 : UN PROFIL XXL À 100 M€ ! 🤑❤️🤍
Si l'intérêt de Manchester City est connu, c'est surtout le profil très rare du Lillois (18 ans) qui affole l'Europe.
Souvent comparé à Sergio Busquets, il impressionne par 𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗿𝗲̂𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗻𝗴-𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗶𝗱… pic.twitter.com/Unrc86blTe
— Actu Ligue 1 (@ActuL1_) July 22, 2026
Manchester City Outline Development Plan for Bouaddi
The Premier League champions initially contemplated signing Bouaddi and immediately loaning him back to Lille for a season to further develop his abilities. However, Manchester City have now decided that, should they complete the transfer, Bouaddi’s progression would be best served at the Etihad Stadium, working closely within their own system.
Impressive World Cup Spurs City’s Interest
Manchester City’s recruitment team were particularly impressed by Bouaddi’s performances during the FIFA World Cup, where he featured for Morocco. His displays elevated his profile and led City to earmark him as a priority addition to reinforce Enzo Maresca’s squad. However, it remains uncertain whether Lille are prepared to entertain discussions below their stated nine-figure valuation for the young midfielder.
