Ayyoub Bouaddi signs with Manchester City
Ayyoub Bouaddi, the 18-year-old Moroccan international, signs for Manchester City for £81.4m. The deal includes an initial £81m fee plus £4.3m in bonuses.
Background of the deal
The club reached an agreement with Lille in the hours before the Premier League season kicked off against Bournemouth, after protracted negotiations. Bouaddi was pulled from Morocco’s game with Angers today and is due to travel for his medical.
Need for a Rodri replacement
New manager Enzo Maresca stated that his side urgently needs a Rodri replacement following Rodri’s sale to Barcelona and Bernardo Silva’s free transfer to Real Madrid. Bouaddi brings vital midfield experience and skill.
Manchester City’s summer spend
Reports indicate that Manchester City has spent about £200m this summer, and is expected to continue spending in the final week of the transfer window to add more quality.
Maresca’s transfer plan
Maresca mentioned that he is looking for around 20 senior outfield players. With Omar Marmoush heading to Tottenham and Newcastle United in talks over Nico Gonzalez, there is a pressing need for more bodies.
Bouaddi as a key asset
Despite his young age, Bouaddi has played almost a century of professional games and shone at the World Cup this summer. Lille wanted to keep him for the campaign, but Manchester City pushed for a deal that saw him join straight away.
Another deal on the horizon
The club is also closing on a £35m signing of Palmeiras winger Allan Elias.
Financial details
The deal involves an initial £81m fee with additional bonuses of £4.3m, making it one of the club’s most expensive signings.
Final detail
This move strengthens the midfield after the loss of key players, adding Bouaddi’s youthful energy and advanced talent. Manchester City is also nearing a £35m deal for Allan Elias.
