Archive · 23 Aug 2026
Manchester City Agree Record £86m Deal for Lille Teenager
Manchester City want to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi, an 18-year-old midfielder from Lille.
Bouaddi plays for Morocco, although he was born in France.
Reports say the transfer could cost about £86 million or €100 million.
One report says the fee includes £81.3 million upfront and £4.3 million in bonuses.
Bouaddi still needs to pass a medical and finish the paperwork.
He impressed during Morocco’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals.
City need midfielders after Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Tijjani Reijnders left, according to reports.
The club may also try to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández.
Manchester City have reportedly agreed to sign 18-year-old Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille.
Reports value the transfer at up to £86 million, or approximately €100 million, including add-ons.
The reported structure is a fixed £81.3 million fee plus £4.3 million in potential bonuses.
Bouaddi is expected to complete a medical and sign a four-year contract with an option for another year.
City targeted the defensive midfielder after several midfield departures and remain interested in Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández.
- Who
- Manchester City, LOSC Lille and Ayyoub Bouaddi, an 18-year-old Morocco international.
- What
- Manchester City have reportedly agreed a major transfer to sign Bouaddi from Lille.
- When
- The agreement was reported on August 23, 2026; the move remains subject to medical and contractual steps.
- Where
- Bouaddi is expected to travel to England and join Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
- Why
- Reports say City are rebuilding their midfield after the departures of Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Tijjani Reijnders.
- Reported total fee
- Up to £86 million, approximately €100 million.
- Reported fee structure
- £81.3 million fixed fee plus £4.3 million in potential add-ons.
- Player
- Ayyoub Bouaddi, an 18-year-old midfielder.
- Current club
- LOSC Lille.
- International team
- Morocco.
- Proposed contract
- Four years, with an option for an additional year.
- Transfer status
- Reportedly agreed but pending a medical and contractual procedures.
- Other reported target
- Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández, valued by one report at £120 million.
Sources
Ayyoub Bouaddi transfer: Manchester City seal record £86m deal for Lille’s Morocco teen star
Manchester City Set To Sign 18-Year-Old Wonderkid For 100 Million Euros
Manchester City set to sign Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi in €100 million Morocco deal
