Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille for €95 million (£81.4 million) plus €5 million in add-ons. The 18-year-old has agreed a five-year contract with the Premier League club.
Bouaddi becomes the most expensive teenager ever signed by an English club. His move represents a significant investment as Manchester City continue to reshape their midfield following several departures this summer.
The teenager has experienced a meteoric rise in his career. He became Lille's youngest player when appearing against KÍ Klaksvík on 5 October 2023, just three days after turning 16. During his time at the French club, Bouaddi made 96 appearances and earned international recognition with Morocco.
Bouaddi's signing comes as Manchester City manage multiple squad changes. They have loaned Omar Marmoush to Tottenham Hotspur for the season with an obligation to buy for an initial £50 million, while selling defender Nico González to Newcastle United for £52 million.
In a statement, Bouaddi expressed his excitement about joining City. "I am happy with the progress I have made so far, but I also know I can improve so much," he said. "This is undoubtedly the best place for me to do that. This club demands trophies and I will give everything to make sure we are challenging for every title."
Hugo Viana, Manchester City's director of football, highlighted the midfielder's potential. "Ayyoub's potential is extremely high – a player equipped with everything a top midfielder needs," Viana said. "At just 18, he already has outstanding football intelligence and that will only improve under the guidance of Enzo Maresca."
Bouaddi has primarily played as a number six and continues City's midfield overhaul. The club has seen four frontline central midfielders depart this summer, creating space for new additions. Along with Bouaddi, City have signed Elliott Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116 million.
Manchester City are also expected to pursue Chelsea's Enzo Fernández, with the west London club valuing the Argentine at £120 million. The Blues value the midfielder highly, though City are preparing an opening offer to test their resolve.
The signing demonstrates Manchester City's strategy of investing in young talent with high potential while balancing their midfield transition. Bouaddi's technical ability and intelligence align with manager Pep Guardiola's tactical requirements, and his long-term contract reflects the club's confidence in his development.