Manchester City are edging closer to completing the signing of Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi, one of European football’s most coveted young midfielders.
The 18-year-old has emerged as a priority midfield target for City as they continue to plan strategically for the long-term future of the squad.
The Premier League club have been in direct negotiations with Lille, with reports suggesting personal terms on a long-term contract have already been agreed between the parties.
Bouaddi further elevated his global profile through standout performances for Morocco, adding an international dimension to an already impressive club resume.
His rise at Lille has been meteoric, with the youngster establishing himself through a series of commanding European displays that caught the attention of clubs across the continent.
Known for his tactical discipline, composure in possession, and elite vision, Bouaddi fits the precise blueprint City desire in a modern central midfielder.
Former international teammate Rayan Cherki has spoken glowingly about Bouaddi in the past, offering a remarkable insight into the teenager’s unique combination of academic and footballing intelligence.
“We used to call him ‘Einstein’ because he was different,” Cherki said, describing how Bouaddi would study mathematics before arriving at training as if nothing had happened.
Cherki went on to explain just how seamlessly Bouaddi could switch from the classroom to the biggest stages in club football, saying: “The amazing thing is that he could leave the classroom and then step onto the pitch to perform at the highest level in Champions League matches with the same calmness and confidence.”
Cherki added: “His intelligence isn’t only shown in academics, it’s clear in his football too. He reads the game two or three steps ahead, stays composed under pressure, and always seems to make the right decision.”
Perhaps most tellingly, Cherki pointed to the qualities that separate Bouaddi from other highly-rated prospects of his generation.
“People see his talent, but they don’t always see the discipline, mentality, and intelligence behind it,” Cherki said. “That’s what makes him special. I truly believe he has everything needed to become one of the best midfielders in the world.”
If the deal is completed, it would further underline City’s continued strategy of recruiting elite young talent early, with Bouaddi viewed as a long-term engine for their midfield.
