Lille Sets Price for Ayyoub Bouaddi Amid Man City Interest

Lille is demanding between €80 and 100 million for Manchester City target Ayyoub Bouaddi. The French club's president, Olivier Létang, favors a sale that incorporates a one-year loan allowing the midfielder to continue his development in France, according to a recent report. Bouaddi has been a standout figure in the summer transfer window, particularly after his performances for Morocco at the FIFA World Cup in North America. Manchester City has been monitoring the 18-year-old and is reportedly working towards a deal that would involve Bouaddi signing with the club now but remaining at Lille on loan for another season.

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Manchester City, under the incoming management of Enzo Maresca, plans to integrate Bouaddi into the first-team squad by the 2027-28 season. According to RMC Sport insider Fabrice Hawkins, Lille's asking price is a reflection of their preference for a sale structure that includes a loan back to Stade Pierre-Mauroy. This approach mirrors the club's previous deal with River Plate for Julian Alvarez, which involved a six-month loan back. Such a structure would enable Bouaddi to continue developing in a familiar environment before transitioning to the Premier League.

This proposal narrows the negotiation gap between Lille and Manchester City, with the primary focus now on finalizing the fee. The proposed €80-100 million is substantial, especially for a player not set to join the Premier League until 2027. However, City sporting director Hugo Viana is reportedly prepared to invest in long-term squad cornerstones. The alignment on deal structure between the two clubs marks significant progress in negotiations, with the fee remaining the last major point of discussion.

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