"City" plans to finalize the deal for Bouadi.

The pace of negotiations between English club Manchester City and French club Lille regarding the future of young Moroccan international Ayoub Bouaddi has accelerated, amid the sky blues' desire to finalize the signing of one of the most promising talents in European football.

According to transfer news journalist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City's management has opened direct negotiation channels with Lille officials, making the English team the most serious contender in the race to acquire the Moroccan midfielder during the current transfer window.

The same source clarified that the negotiations are progressing positively; however, City’s management is still considering the timing of Bouaddi's integration into the team, whether starting from next season or delaying his joining until the summer of 2027, based on the sporting vision that the technical staff led by coach Enzo Maresca will establish.

Olivier Létang, the president of Lille, had previously confirmed that the club's desire is to retain Bouaddi's services for an additional season, considering that having a player of such quality at the age of eighteen is a significant asset for the French team, before the current market movements opened the player's future to all possibilities.

British media reports indicate that the value of the deal could reach around 100 million euros, a figure that reflects the status the Moroccan player has attained, especially after the remarkable performances he has delivered recently, which have drawn the attention of major European clubs.

Manchester City sees Bouaddi as a player capable of succeeding some of the names that have left the midfield; his style fits the team's requirements, thanks to his ability to connect the lines, retain possession, and perform multiple roles on the pitch.

Bouaddi has caught the eye during his time with Lille, showing great maturity despite his young age, making him one of the standout talents in Ligue 1, which has led major European clubs to closely monitor his development, before he confirmed his rising status at the 2026 World Cup wearing the "Atlas Lions" jersey.

New developments in the file are expected in the coming days, especially since Manchester City is keen to finalize negotiations and reach an agreement with Lille regarding the financial value and timing of the Moroccan player's transfer to the Etihad Stadium.