Lille president Olivier Letang has stated there is a 'very high chance' that midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi will remain with the French club this summer, despite strong interest from Manchester City. The 18-year-old Morocco international impressed at the World Cup and has been identified by City as a target to bolster their midfield.
City's Midfield Rebuilding Plans
Manchester City have already spent £116m to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest earlier this summer, following the departure of Bernardo Silva. However, the club remains keen to add another midfielder. Rodri is entering the final year of his contract, while the futures of Nico Gonzalez, Mateo Kovacic, and Tijjani Reijnders are uncertain.
Bouaddi has emerged as a key target for City, who are looking to strengthen their squad under new manager Enzo Maresca. Lille have set an asking price of £85m for the young midfielder but would prefer to keep him for another season if a sale is agreed. City, however, want Bouaddi to join immediately.
Letang's Comments on Bouaddi's Future
Speaking in a press conference on Thursday, Letang addressed the speculation surrounding Bouaddi. 'I have never spoken about figures, and I won't start today because I'm not the one who sets them,' he said, according to Morocco World News. 'There are very few clubs capable of signing a player of Bouaddi's quality at just 18 years old. What matters most is the overall project, his development path, and finding the best environment for him to continue growing.'
Letang added, per Get Football News France: 'We have seen each other since his return from the World Cup. I can't say what was said. Everything is possible, but my opinion is that he should stay with us another season. My conviction is that there is a strong chance that he stays with us and he would be very happy to do so.'
City's Pre-Season Preparations
Interest in Bouaddi comes as City prepare for the new season. Players will return for pre-season on Monday, with senior stars Gianluigi Donnarumma, Phil Foden, and Rico Lewis expected to report for Maresca's first training session. Those who featured at the World Cup will receive an extended break, with FIFPRO recommending at least four uninterrupted weeks off.
City's first pre-season friendly is scheduled for August 1 against Inter Milan. Their first competitive match will be the Community Shield against Arsenal on August 16, followed by a Premier League opener at home to AFC Bournemouth a week later.
