Manchester City close in on Ayyoub Bouaddi as Rodri Barcelona exit nears

Manchester City are closing in on the signing of Ayyoub Bouaddi, with the highly-rated Lille midfielder expected to become one of the biggest transfers of the summer as Enzo Maresca's side prepare for the possible departure of Rodri.

According to reports, City are nearing an agreement with LOSC Lille worth €100 million for the 18-year-old, having already reached personal terms with the Morocco international.

The move would represent another significant investment in City's midfield following the earlier arrival of Elliot Anderson, who joined for a reported €135m.

City are said to be in the final stages of negotiations with Lille over a deal that would make Bouaddi one of the most expensive teenage midfielders in football.

The midfielder is reportedly keen on the switch to the Premier League, while manager Enzo Maresca is expected to integrate him into the first-team squad immediately ahead of the new season.

Bouaddi has established himself as one of Europe's brightest young midfielders after breaking into Lille's senior side at a remarkably young age.

Bouaddi's arrival is also viewed as a significant step towards facilitating Rodri's expected move to Barcelona.

Reports claim the La Liga champions remain determined to sign the Spain international after seeing an opening offer of €45m rejected by Manchester City.

Barcelona are expected to return with an improved proposal, while City's pursuit of Bouaddi suggests the club are already planning for life without one of their most influential players.

Although Rodri's future has yet to be resolved, City's activity in the transfer market points towards major changes in midfield before the window closes.

The teenager enhanced his growing reputation with Morocco during this summer's World Cup and was already regarded as one of Lille's standout performers in Ligue 1.

Despite being only 18, Bouaddi was a regular starter as Lille secured a third-place finish in France.

While his attacking numbers remain modest, Bouaddi has earned widespread praise for his composure, technical quality and maturity in midfield.

Manchester City will continue negotiations with Lille in an attempt to finalise Bouaddi's transfer before the new Premier League season begins. Barcelona are also expected to submit an improved offer for Rodri after their initial proposal was rejected, with City's transfer plans suggesting both deals could become closely linked during the final weeks of the summer window.