Manchester City are locked in advanced negotiations with Lille over the signing of midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, as the Premier League champions look to strengthen their squad.
The talks between City and LOSC have been described as “particularly intense” by RMC Sport, which reports that the English club are pushing hard to secure an agreement for the Morocco international. City have also made contact with the player’s representatives as they attempt to move ahead in the race for his signature.
While no deal has yet been finalised, the key question now is whether Lille can be persuaded to sanction the departure of one of their midfielders. The French club have not publicly commented on the ongoing discussions, and the outcome of the negotiations remains uncertain.
RMC Sport adds that, in addition to direct discussions with Lille, Manchester City have opened a dialogue with Bouaddi’s entourage, underlining the seriousness of their interest. The approach is part of City’s wider strategy to reinforce their options in the middle of the pitch.
World Cup displays spark transfer interest
Bouaddi featured for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, where his performances attracted attention from scouts, analysts and clubs across Europe. His statistical output during the tournament has been highlighted as a key factor in raising his profile on the transfer market.
According to RMC Sport, several clubs have expressed interest in the midfielder on the back of his World Cup displays. However, the same outlet reports that Manchester City are currently in a stronger position than their rivals.
“The English club currently have a head start on the competition in this case,” the French broadcaster said, indicating that City’s early and direct involvement has given them an advantage as talks progress.
City lead the chase as others monitor situation
Although other sides are monitoring Bouaddi’s situation and have made their interest known, none are believed to be as advanced in discussions as Manchester City. The Premier League club’s willingness to engage both with Lille and with the player’s camp has, for now, put them at the front of the queue.
For Lille, the situation poses a dilemma between retaining a World Cup performer and capitalising on the growing demand for the Moroccan midfielder. With negotiations described as intense and multiple clubs in the frame, Bouaddi’s future is set to be one of the notable stories of the current transfer window.
No timetable has yet emerged for a resolution, but all parties are understood to be active in discussions as Manchester City continue their efforts to convince LOSC to release the midfielder.
