Manchester City has taken an important step towards signing 18-year-old Lille wonderkid Ayoub Bouaddi by agreeing personal terms with him.
The Moroccan midfielder has already informed the French club's hierarchy of his desire to continue his career at the Etihad Stadium, and his representatives have finalised a five-year agreement.
Negotiation process between the clubs
Despite the player’s consent, Manchester City and Lille continue to discuss the details of the transfer fee.
Disagreements over price: Lille is demanding around €100 million for their prodigy, while the Manchester club is offering a sum closer to €90 million plus bonuses.
The loan issue: The main subject of contention remains the player's immediate future. The French club insists on retaining Bouaddi on loan until the end of the season. However, Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca is firmly against such a scenario and demands the immediate integration of the midfielder into the first team.
Competition with PSG: PSG retains interest and is willing to agree to Lille's terms with a buy-back loan, but Bouaddi himself clearly prefers a move to England.
The situation surrounding Rodri
Attempts to sign Bouaddi are being undertaken by sporting director Hugo Viana alongside ongoing developments regarding Ballon d'Or holder Rodri.
Real Madrid continues to negotiate a deal for the 30-year-old Spaniard, who recently underwent minor back surgery. Rodri is leaning towards a return to his hometown, prompting Manchester City to strengthen the midfield with another young talent after the previously completed transfer of Elliot Anderson.
