Ayyoub Bouaddi is one of the most sought-after young talents in world football, and Manchester City are reportedly leading the race to sign the Lille midfielder, with Arsenal and Manchester United also linked
Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi appears to have chosen to move to Manchester City this summer, with the talented midfielder reportedly agreeing terms on a contract with the club. Several Premier Leagues including Manchester United and Arsenal have also been linked with the World Cup star.
The Morocco international was one of the standout players at this summer’s World Cup in North America, as he helped his side reach the quarter-finals before losing to France. His performance have led most of Europe’s top clubs to show interest in the 18-year-old.
Bouaddi currently plays for Ligue 1 side Lille. Reports claim that they are asking for around €100 million (£85 million) if they are to cash in this summer.
The club’s chairman Oliver Letang hinted at his asking price earlier this month, stating: “When I see [Elliot] Anderson move to Manchester City for £116 million and [Sandro] Tonali to Tottenham for £100 million, and they don’t have the potential for development that Ayyoub has because he possesses unique qualities.
“I have a price in mind, and we’ll see what happens.”
According to journalist Nicolo Schira, the teenager has agreed a contract with City running until 2031. The club will now enter into negotiations with Lille in a bid to reach an agreement over the transfer fee.
It is also reported that City anticipate two other ‘top European clubs’ making their move, though their identities remain undisclosed. Arsenal and United are amongst the clubs most strongly linked with an interest in the player.
Reports indicate that City view Bouaddi as someone capable of slotting directly into Enzo Maresca‘s first team, despite the £116 million acquisition of England international Anderson. This could have given them an advantage over competing clubs.
Former France international Emmanuel Petit has heaped praise on Bouaddi. “He’s been one of the strongest young players in France,” he told talkSPORT.
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“We’ve seen that against Brazil. He’s shown maturity and personality.
“Even at the end of the game, I saw him try to dribble in his own penalty area. The confidence, he’s got quality, he’s got physical presence, he’s got the tactical knowledge, he’s got the technical skills.
“I’m not surprised at all that he’s been targeted for two seasons now with the big clubs in Europe, and it will be a fierce battle to get him.”
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