The transfer of Ayyoub Bouaddi to Manchester City continues to take shape. According to information published this Wednesday by Sky Sports, the Moroccan international midfielder has already reached an agreement with the English club regarding the personal terms of his future contract. Negotiations are now ongoing with Lille, who are reportedly asking for around 100 million euros, or 85 million pounds sterling.
Manchester City does not view the 18-year-old player as merely an investment for the future. Enzo Maresca wishes to integrate him immediately into the first team and believes that his experience with Lille, where he is approaching 100 appearances in all competitions, allows him to meet the demands of the Premier League.
Bouaddi’s profile would fit perfectly into the 4-2-3-1 system favored by the Italian coach. More defensive than Elliot Anderson, who was recently signed by the Citizens, the Moroccan could take on a role as a playmaker in front of the defense. Sky Sports notably highlights his 151 recoveries made with Lille last season, the best total in the squad, as well as an average of 5.8 balls recovered per match.
His impressive performances during the last World Cup with the Atlas Lions, particularly against Brazil, are said to have definitively convinced Manchester City of his ability to step up immediately. No final agreement with Lille has yet been announced, but the English club now appears to be in a favorable position to complete one of the major transfers of the summer.
