Transfer Rumour Unconfirmed · Gaining tractionDaily Mail FootballUnverified sourceVia Jack Gaughan· 4 Aug 2026
City close in on Bouaddi as Maresca seeks experience
Manchester City are progressing on a deal for Lille's teenage midfielder as they look to balance youth with experience.
A. Bouaddi
player
Player
Ayyoub Bouaddi
Position
Midfielder
Current club
Lille
Linked club
Manchester City
What happened. Manchester City are progressing in a deal to sign Lille's Ayyoub Bouaddi, as Enzo Maresca seeks senior additions after losing experienced players.
- City lost nearly 1,000 combined appearances with Bernardo Silva, John Stones, and Nathan Ake departing.
- Maresca wants older heads to balance the squad, with Real Madrid pushing for Rodri.
- City are also looking at wingers and a right back, with Malo Gusto admired.
“Fortunately this is a squad that doesn’t need to do many things. At the same time, as we already know the club lost important players in terms of experience like Bernardo, John and Nathan.”
— Enzo Maresca
The transfer window remains open, and City are in daily communication to address squad needs.
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