Manchester City have set their sights on Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, the 18-year-old Morocco international who caught the eye of Europe's elite clubs during the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The teenager was a constant presence in Morocco's midfield throughout the tournament, turning in a series of performances that drew widespread attention. His displays have now brought City firmly into the race to sign him.

United already in the picture

Manchester United had already been tracking Bouaddi. Sky Sports News reported earlier this year that the Lille midfielder features on Manchester United's list of transfer targets — meaning City could face direct competition from their cross-city rivals for his signature.

Midfield rebuild at the Etihad

City's interest comes on the back of a busy summer of squad reshaping under new manager Enzo Maresca. The club have already committed £116 million to bring Elliot Anderson to the Etihad, yet the need for further midfield reinforcement remains.

Several established midfielders could depart before the window closes. Tijjani Reijnders, Mateo Kovacic, and Nico Gonzalez have all attracted interest from other clubs, leaving Maresca potentially short of options in the engine room.

Rodri stays — for now

Real Madrid have identified Rodri as a midfield target, but City are not prepared to entertain a sale. Instead, the club intend to reward the Spain international with a new contract, underlining how central he remains to their plans despite the broader midfield uncertainty.

With multiple incomings and outgoings still possible, Bouaddi represents the kind of youthful, high-ceiling talent that City appear determined to secure as they reshape their squad around Maresca's vision.