Manchester City nears deal for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi

Manchester City is in the final stages of negotiating a deal with Lille for 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The transfer, which could potentially become a record sale for a player leaving Ligue 1, is valued at approximately €100 million (£85.6 million).

Bouaddi, a highly regarded deep-lying midfielder, is reportedly awaiting permission to travel for his medical. The move comes as Manchester City prepares for the departure of Spanish midfielder Rodri, who is expected to join Barcelona in a transfer worth £65 million.

Bouaddi has made 88 appearances for Lille and recently represented Morocco in the World Cup. He is expected to bolster the midfield alongside summer signing Elliot Anderson as the club reshapes its squad.