Manchester City’s midfield gap narrows with Lille’s Bouaddi in sight

Manchester City have effectively identified their next midfield recruit: Lille’s Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. After securing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest to plug a serious hole, manager Enzo Maresca’s squad still seeks a quality midfielder, and Bouaddi has emerged as the sole prominent target linked to the club.

The FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders signed Anderson to fill a serious hole in their midfield, but the consensus remains that the squad still needs one more quality midfielder. No serious links to any other midfielders have been reported from Manchester City’s point of view.

Sam Lee reported that Manchester City like and admire Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. Lee added that the club have considered signing Bouaddi this summer and loaning him back to Lille, while also weighing the option of keeping him in Enzo Maresca’s squad for next season.

Lee further noted that City believe Bouaddi could slot in at right‑back if needed, offering tactical flexibility beyond his natural midfield role.

Chris Wheeler reported that Manchester City, alongside Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham, have shown interest in Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott. Bournemouth have no intention of selling Scott and are hoping to extend his contract, which runs until 2028.

City will need to find Rodri’s long‑term replacement, and Bouaddi is seen as the ideal candidate. Hugo Viana is mentioned as another possible pivot in the transfer market, though his involvement remains uncertain.

Morocco remains in the World Cup with a quarter‑final tie against France on the horizon, making further updates on Bouaddi’s future unlikely until the tournament concludes.

No other midfielders have been linked to Manchester City at this stage, and a move for Alex Scott appears unlikely given Bournemouth’s stance. Whether City can secure Bouaddi will depend on loan arrangements and the timing of the World Cup.