Manchester City have reportedly agreed a deal worth pound 100 million (£86 million) to sign Lille and Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi in a move that would make the teenager the most expensive Under-19 player in football history.
The 18-year-old has reportedly agreed personal terms with City, with the proposed deal understood to include pound 95 million upfront and a further pound 5 million in add-ons.
City’s spending has continued to accelerate following Pep Guardiola’s departure, with Bouaddi set to become another major addition to the squad.
Bouaddi set for record-breaking transfer
If completed, the transfer would more than double the previous record for the most expensive U-19 player.
Manchester United currently hold that record after paying Lille pound 62 million for defender Leny Yoro in 2024.
Bouaddi’s pound 100 million valuation reflects his rapid rise since making his Lille debut in October 2023, just three days after his 16th birthday. The midfielder has since made 88 appearances for the French club and helped Lille finish third in Ligue 1 last season.
Morocco star attracts City interest
Bouaddi’s reputation grew further after an impressive World Cup campaign with Morocco this summer.
The teenager started five of Morocco’s six matches as they reached the quarter-finals, further strengthening his status as one of the most promising young midfielders in world football.
He also attracted international attention during Lille’s Champions League victory over Real Madrid in 2024, when his performance announced him on the European stage.
Although primarily deployed as a defensive midfielder, Bouaddi is capable of operating in more advanced positions and could provide City with additional flexibility in midfield.
The move would also come as City reshape their squad following the departure of 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who joined Barcelona in a deal worth up to pound 76.5 million last week.
With personal terms reportedly agreed and a pound 100 million deal in principle on the table, City are now closing in on one of the most expensive teenage transfers in football history.