Manchester City are closing in on signing Ayyoub Bouaddi in a record-breaking deal as Enzo Maresca continues reshaping his squad.
The Premier League giants have already strengthened significantly following several important departures at the Etihad Stadium.
However, City are now preparing to invest heavily again as they target one of Europe’s most highly-rated young midfielders.
Bouaddi has emerged as a major target following an outstanding season with Lille and a breakthrough World Cup campaign with Morocco.
The 18-year-old made 42 appearances across all competitions last season and continued his development on the international stage.
Moreover, he started five matches during Morocco’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals.
His performances attracted interest from several major European clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
However, Manchester City have now moved into a commanding position in the race for his signature.
According to TEAMtalk, City have made significant progress in negotiations with Lille and Bouaddi’s representatives in recent days.
The two clubs are now close to finalising an agreement, with only minor details reportedly remaining.
Lille value the midfielder at around €100M (£85M), and City are now close to meeting those demands.
If completed at that figure, Bouaddi would become the most expensive teenage midfielder in football history.
City’s sporting project has also played a major role in convincing the youngster. Lille had initially preferred to sell Bouaddi before sending him back to France on loan for another season.
However, Maresca wants the midfielder included in his first-team plans immediately. Bouaddi has since informed Lille that he is ready to make the move now rather than remain in France on loan.
Meanwhile, Lille are no longer expected to stand in the way of an immediate transfer.
City believe Bouaddi can become a long-term cornerstone of their midfield alongside recent arrival Elliot Anderson.
Therefore, barring any late complications, Manchester City are now on course to complete a record-breaking deal for the Morocco international.
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