Bouaddi to City: £85m transfer close, claims reporter

Manchester City are on the verge of completing an £85 million deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to a journalist close to the negotiations. The World Cup-winning midfielder would become one of the most expensive signings in the club's history.

The 22-year-old Moroccan international has been a long-term target for Pep Guardiola, who sees him as the ideal successor to ageing midfield mainstays. City's recruitment team has been tracking Bouaddi since his breakout performances at the 2022 World Cup.

Context: A midfield in transition

City's engine room is undergoing a generational shift. Kevin De Bruyne, now 33, has struggled with injuries this season, while Ilkay Gundogan left for Barcelona in 2023. Mateo Kovacic, signed last summer, has provided experience but lacks the dynamism of his younger years.

Bouaddi would arrive as a box-to-box presence, combining defensive discipline with progressive carrying. In Ligue 1 last season, he ranked in the top 5% of midfielders for dribbles completed and tackles won. His ability to operate as a number eight or a deep-lying playmaker offers Guardiola tactical flexibility.

City have already secured one midfield addition this window, but the Bouaddi deal represents a statement of intent. The £85m fee would surpass the £77m spent on Jack Grealish, making him the club's second-most expensive signing ever behind Grealish (adjusted for inflation).

Impact: Strengthening the core and FPL appeal

From a tactical standpoint, Bouaddi's arrival could allow Guardiola to shift from a double pivot to a more aggressive 4-1-4-1 shape, with Rodri as the sole holder. Against deep blocks, Bouaddi's close control and line-breaking passes would be invaluable.

For Fantasy Premier League managers, Bouaddi is likely to be priced at around £7.0-8.0m, making him a mid-range option. City's favourable fixture run from Gameweek 10 onwards — including home games against Bournemouth, Fulham, and Wolves — could see him become a differential asset if he settles quickly.

The transfer also intensifies competition for places. Current midfielders Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, and Julián Álvarez may see reduced minutes depending on Guardiola's rotation. It also raises questions about the future of Kalvin Phillips, who has been peripheral since his £42m move.

  • Bouaddi has won 35 caps for Morocco, scoring 6 goals, and was part of the 2022 World Cup semi-final run.
  • He has registered 8 goals and 11 assists across all competitions last season, his best return yet.
  • City's midfield depth chart would include De Bruyne, Foden, Silva, Álvarez, Rodri, Kovacic, and now Bouaddi — prompting potential exits.

What's next: Medical and formal announcement expected imminently

With personal terms reportedly agreed and a fee structure in place, Bouaddi is expected to fly to Manchester for a medical within 48 hours. Should the deal go through, he would be available for City's Premier League clash against Tottenham on September 20. Guardiola will hope the midfielder can adapt quickly to the physical demands of English football.

The £85m investment reflects City's urgency to refresh their squad ahead of an increasingly competitive title race, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea all strengthening. If Bouaddi hits the ground running, he could be the difference between retaining the crown and falling behind.

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