Manchester City are reportedly closing in on Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with manager Davide Ancelotti confirming negotiations are taking place amid significant interest in the 18-year-old.
City have been pursuing Bouaddi for several weeks and previously emerged as the best-placed club in the race for his signature.
According to Ouest-France, the midfielder is now “close to joining” Manchester City as discussions over a potentially major transfer continue.
Manchester City advance Ayyoub Bouaddi talks
City have already made concrete moves towards reaching an agreement with Lille, who could reportedly collect around €100million from the operation.
Bouaddi remains involved with the French club while negotiations continue, coming off the bench to play 45 minutes in Saturday's 1-1 pre-season draw against Everton.
Ancelotti explained that the midfielder featured because he was physically ready despite the uncertainty surrounding his future.
“Of course, there are negotiations,” the Lille manager said when discussing the player's situation.
“Many clubs are interested in him. He's a very, very good player and I hope he stays with us.”
Until an agreement is completed, Ancelotti insists he will continue treating Bouaddi as part of his squad ahead of the new Ligue 1 season.
Ancelotti makes huge Bouaddi prediction
Ancelotti also offered a glowing assessment of why Europe's leading clubs are interested in the teenager.
“He has an extraordinary personality,” he said. “He's 18, but he looks like he's 32 when he's on the pitch.”
The Lille boss highlighted Bouaddi's intelligence, technical quality, physical strength and ability in duels before making a major prediction about his future.
“He's going to become one of the best midfielders in Europe over the next ten years,” Ancelotti said.
Manchester City appear to be positioning themselves to secure that potential, although negotiations have not yet produced a confirmed transfer.
Key Points
- Manchester City are reportedly close to signing Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille.
- City have been negotiating with the Ligue 1 club for several weeks.
- Lille could reportedly receive around €100m from the transfer.
- Manager Davide Ancelotti has confirmed “there are negotiations” for the midfielder.
- Ancelotti believes Bouaddi can become one of Europe's best midfielders over the next decade.
What's Next?
Manchester City will attempt to turn their advanced discussions with Lille into a final agreement for Bouaddi.
The 18-year-old remains available to Ancelotti while negotiations continue, but reports from France now place City in a strong position to complete the transfer as Lille prepare for the start of their competitive season.
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