Manchester City have finalized the signing of Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille in a deal worth £85.6 million, establishing the 18-year-old as the most expensive teenager in Premier League history. The transfer includes an upfront payment of £81.4 million with an additional £4.2 million in potential add-ons, and the player has committed to a five-year contract, pending international clearance.
The move surpasses the previous record for a teenager set by Manchester United’s £58.9 million acquisition of Leny Yoro, also from Lille, in 2024. Bouaddi, who has earned eight caps for Morocco, arrives at the Etihad Stadium following a breakout period where he made 96 appearances for the French side. He notably became Lille’s youngest-ever player at 16 during a 2023 Europa League debut against KI and played a pivotal role in their 2024 Champions League victory over Real Madrid.
Manager Enzo Maresca moved to secure the youngster following the departures of Rodri to Barcelona for £65 million and Tijjani Reinders to Al-Qadsiah for £52 million. Bouaddi, who started five of Morocco’s six matches during their run to the World Cup quarter-finals this summer, expressed his excitement, stating, “Manchester City are, for me, the best club in the world. It’s a dream to be here and be able to call myself a City player.” He added that the club’s winning mentality and style of play were primary factors in his decision.
Within the squad, Bouaddi is expected to operate as a deep-lying conductor, complementing England midfielder Elliot Anderson, who recently joined from Nottingham Forest for £116 million. The club remains active in the transfer market and is preparing an offer for Chelsea’s 25-year-old Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who is valued at approximately £120 million.
The squad is undergoing significant restructuring, with several other high-profile moves confirmed. Brazilian winger Savio has departed for Tottenham in a £75 million deal, while Spurs have also secured a loan agreement for City’s Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush. Additionally, Spanish midfielder Nico Gonzalez is nearing a £52 million exit to join Newcastle United. The report also notes that he impressed at this summer’s World Cup – starting five of Morocco’s six matches in their run to the quarter-finals – after becoming a key member of Lille’s side in Ligue 1. The report also notes that this is a very special day for me and my family. The report also notes that i have spent most of my life working hard to become the best player I can be and reach the top of the game. The report also notes that city always try and play quality football. The report also notes that and they have shown they are winners – this club feels like it’s built to win.
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