Manchester City Nearing Deal for Rodri's Successor

Manchester City is reportedly close to finalizing a deal for highly-rated Lille midfielder Ayoub Bouadi, with a transfer fee estimated around £85 million. The 18-year-old Moroccan international was an unused substitute for Lille during their friendly against Everton on Saturday, and coach Davide Ancelotti confirmed that negotiations are underway. The French club is keen to retain the midfielder for another season, but City and the player himself are pushing for an immediate transfer, which is expected to drive up the price.

“Of course, there are negotiations,” Ancelotti admitted. “There’s interest from so many clubs. He’s a really, really good player, and I hope he stays with us!” “He’s incredibly intelligent both on and off the pitch and very mature. He’s 18, but on the field, he plays like he’s 32.” “He will be one of the best midfielders in Europe over the next 10 years.”

The teenager's arrival at City would help offset the potential departure of Spanish captain Rodri, who is reportedly determined to move to Barcelona. The Spanish champions have submitted a third offer of approximately £60 million for the 30-year-old, hoping City will agree to a compromise for his sale.