Man City complete £86m Bouaddi signing from Lille

Manchester City has concluded a £86 million deal to sign Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, making him the Premier League's most expensive teenager. The 18-year-old has agreed to a five-year contract with City, subject to international clearance, with the club paying £81.4 million upfront, plus £4.2 million in add-ons.

City's acquisition of Bouaddi follows their departure for central midfielders Rodri and Tijjani Reinders. The Moroccan international impressed during the 2022 World Cup, starting in five of Morocco's six matches leading to the quarter-finals. Bouaddi expressed his excitement about joining Manchester City, calling it a dream come true and praising the club's playing style.

The fee for Bouaddi surpasses the £58.9 million paid by Manchester United for French defender Leny Yoro in 2024. With the signing of Bouaddi, City aims to strengthen their revamped midfield alongside England midfielder Elliot Anderson, who joined from Nottingham Forest for £116 million. The club is also reportedly interested in Chelsea's £120 million-rated midfielder Enzo Fernandez, with whom they are set to make an offer, though it remains uncertain if the deal will be finalized before the transfer deadline.