Man City move for £85m Bouaddi and still want Fernandez
Manchester City have entered advanced negotiations with Lille to sign Morocco’s prodigious midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi for a reported £85 million fee. The talks, confirmed on Tuesday, come as the Premier League champions continue to chase Argentine playmaker Julian Fernandez, who remains on Lille’s books. The dual pursuit signals City’s intent to refresh a squad that finished second in the 2023‑24 Premier League. With summer transfer windows looming, the outcome could reshape the balance of power in English football.
Key takeaways
- City are close to a £85 million deal for Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, a 19‑year‑old midfield talent.
- Despite the Bouaddi move, Manchester City still target Julian Fernandez as a primary signing.
- The transfers could free up wages and strengthen City’s depth across midfield and attack.
- Lille’s willingness to sell two stars hints at a strategic rebuild after a strong Ligue 1 season.
Background
Ayyoub Bouaddi burst onto the scene with Lille last season, impressing with his vision, work‑rate, and goal contribution in the French league. His performances earned him a senior call‑up for Morocco, further raising his profile. Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, have already secured several high‑profile midfielders but still lack a dynamic box‑to‑box presence, prompting interest in the 19‑year‑old.
Julian Fernandez, meanwhile, has been on City’s radar since his breakout 2022‑23 campaign, where he combined creativity with a high pressing intensity that matches Guardiola’s philosophy. Lille’s reluctance to sell Fernandez for less than £100 million has kept negotiations delicate.
What happened
On 23 April 2026, City’s chief executive confirmed that talks with Lille were “in an advanced stage” regarding Bouaddi. The club’s spokesperson said the £85 million fee reflects Bouaddi’s market value and the player’s potential to become a Premier League star. Simultaneously, sources close to the club told the press that negotiations for Fernandez remain “active but complex,” with Lille demanding a “record‑breaking” sum.
The news has already triggered extensive discussion across the sports community, with analysts comparing Bouaddi’s projected impact to that of former City academy graduates. The club’s strategic approach mirrors previous high‑profile signings, such as the acquisition of Erling Haaland, where a blend of youth and proven talent was prioritized.
Why it matters
Securing Bouaddi would give Manchester City a versatile midfielder capable of operating in both defensive and attacking phases, addressing a depth issue highlighted during the latter stages of the season. According to a report from BBC Sport, the addition could also free up a slot for a future January loan, enhancing squad flexibility.
The pursuit of Fernandez remains crucial for maintaining City’s creative edge. Losing both players to rivals would not only weaken the squad but also signal a shift in Lille’s status as a European talent hub. The dual negotiations illustrate City’s broader strategy to stay ahead of rivals like Liverpool and Chelsea, who are also active in the market.
What happens next
Manchester City are expected to submit a formal bid for Bouaddi within the next 48 hours, after which Lille will likely assess the offer against their own financial plans. If the £85 million deal is completed, City will need to negotiate a separate, potentially higher, package for Fernandez, possibly involving performance‑based add‑ons.
Should Lille reject the offers, both clubs may explore loan arrangements or a staggered payment structure. Fans can anticipate further updates through official club channels and major outlets, including the upcoming Chronicle News coverage.
The summer window will ultimately decide whether City can secure both targets or must prioritize one over the other, a decision that will shape squad dynamics for the 2026‑27 campaign.
Frequently asked questions
Which position does Ayyoub Bouaddi play?
Bouaddi is primarily a central midfielder, capable of both defensive duties and advancing into attack.
How much does Julian Fernandez cost?
Lille has indicated a price tag above £100 million for Fernandez, though exact figures remain undisclosed.
Will Bouaddi join City before the season ends?
If the deal is finalized before the transfer deadline on 1 September, Bouaddi could be eligible to play in the remaining Premier League fixtures.
Bottom line
Manchester City are on the verge of a £85 million signing that could bolster their midfield, while still chasing Julian Fernandez to maintain their attacking firepower. The outcomes will be pivotal for the club’s ambitions in domestic and European competitions, as reported by BBC Sport.
