One of the most closely followed stories of the summer transfer window could be nearing its conclusion. Italian transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano says negotiations between Ayyoub Bouaddi and Manchester City have entered their final stage.
The player, an undisputed starter for Lille, was not in the starting lineup on Saturday for the friendly against Everton. Could this be a sign of an imminent departure?
Romano stressed that, if the transfer is completed, the player would immediately join Manchester City in England. The option of a loan move back to his boyhood club is no longer being considered.
Read also : Ayyoub Bouaddi agrees personal terms with Manchester City, according to Fabrizio Romano
The 18-year-old Bouaddi is under contract with the French club until June 30, 2029.
While several reports have put the transfer fee at around €100 million, the Atlas Lion midfielder could become the most expensive Moroccan player in history, surpassing Achraf Hakimi, who moved from Inter Milan to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 for €68 million.
He would also enter the exclusive group of the most expensive teenagers in football history. Only Kylian Mbappé, who joined Paris Saint-Germain from Monaco for €180 million, would have commanded a higher fee.
