Manchester City have bolstered their midfield by signing teenage Moroccan Ayyoub Bouaddi from Ligue 1 side Lille, the Premier League club confirmed on Friday. The agreement is for five years and is reported to be worth $117 million.
The move represents a significant investment in youth for the reigning English champions. Bouaddi, described by media as a sought-after prospect, joins City at a time when top clubs are increasingly paying premium fees for emerging talent.
Bouaddi joins from Lille, the French top-flight club that has produced several high-profile players in recent years. Details beyond the contract length and reported value were not disclosed by the clubs in initial announcements.
The signing is likely to be viewed as part of Manchester City’s longer-term squad planning, adding a young midfielder to their group as they balance present competitive aims with future development. Further information on Bouaddi’s integration into the first team and any potential loan plans was not immediately available.
Both clubs are expected to release additional information as the transfer is formally completed and the player undertakes any necessary medical and registration formalities.