Manchester City map £85m route for Moroccan prodigy Bouaddi

Manchester City have offered 18‑year‑old Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi a direct first‑team pathway at the Etihad, valuing him at £85 million under new manager Enzo Maresca, with sporting director Hugo Viana steering the pursuit. The club told his representatives the move can happen immediately, integrating him into senior plans from day one. Bouaddi starred for Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring in every match except the Group C game against Haiti, before the team fell in the quarter‑final to France. His performances on the world stage have raised his profile across Europe. The midfielder has made 63 Ligue 1 appearances for LOSC Lille, primarily operating as a central midfielder but also capable of dropping deeper. His experience at Lille and the World Cup have convinced several top clubs of his readiness. Manchester City have placed a £85 million valuation on Bouaddi and confirmed he will be part of Enzo Maresca’s plans from day one. Hugo Viana has reportedly discussed the move with the player’s camp, emphasizing an immediate arrival at the Etihad.

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City’s aggressive pursuit follows the £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest and follows missed chances to sign Sandro Tonali, who moved to Tottenham for £100 million, and Bruno Guimarães, deemed too expensive by Newcastle United. Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United are also tracking Bouaddi. Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta has spoken with manager Mikel Arteta about either allowing another season at Lille or integrating the youngster straight into the first team. The pursuit comes as City face uncertainty over midfield contracts, with doubts surrounding Rodri’s renewal and the possible exits of Tijjani Reijnders and Mateo Kovacic ahead of the 2026‑27 campaign. A decision from Bouaddi is expected soon, and City have indicated they want the player to complete his move immediately, positioning him as a key component of Maresca’s inaugural season.