The Ayyoub Bouaddi transfer saga is taking shape at Manchester City. Asked about the Moroccan international following the heavy defeat against Arsenal (3-0) in the Community Shield, Enzo Maresca declined to comment directly on the negotiations, while clearly indicating that he hoped to see new recruits join his squad quickly.
“He is still a Lille player,” the new Citizens coach first reminded. The Italian manager then explained that the sooner a new signing integrates into the group, the faster they can start working and assimilating the team’s playing principles. Manchester City will kick off their Premier League season next Sunday at home against Bournemouth.
The transfer of Bouaddi is reportedly well advanced. The 18-year-old midfielder has already agreed on the personal terms of his future contract, while Manchester City and LOSC continue their discussions. Lille is valuing their player at around 100 million euros, or nearly 85 million pounds. However, no definitive agreement between the two clubs has yet been formalized.
Rodri’s future adds urgency to this matter. Manchester City has reportedly accepted a £65.4 million offer from FC Barcelona for the Spanish international. At the same time, Maresca wishes to integrate Bouaddi immediately into his first team, whereas Lille had initially considered keeping the Moroccan for an additional season on loan.
Finally, Maresca assured that the defeat against Arsenal had not altered the club’s plans. Manchester City had already identified their needs before the match and still intends to make moves before the transfer window closes. Without announcing Bouaddi’s arrival, the Citizens’ coach has sent an additional signal regarding the English club’s desire to conclude the operation quickly.
