EPL: Man City close in on Morocco’s Bouaddi after Rodri exit

Manchester City is on the verge of signing Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille as they prepare for life without Rodri, who is set to join Barcelona. Negotiations between City and Lille have been ongoing, with personal terms already agreed upon. Lille reportedly values Bouaddi at around £85 million. After confirming personal terms, it is now confirmed that Bouaddi will join Manchester City immediately, not in 2027.

The move follows City’s agreement to sell Rodri to Barcelona for approximately £65 million. Bouaddi, who plays for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup and has emerged as one of Lille’s most highly-rated young players, is seen as a key part of City’s midfield rebuild. City has already invested heavily in their midfield this summer, including a club-record £116 million deal for Elliot Anderson, but manager Enzo Maresca expects further signings before the transfer window closes.