Jorge Cestero of Real Madrid
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Lille are already planning for the possible departure of Ayyoub Bouaddi, with Matteo Moretto reporting the Ligue 1 side have identified Real Madrid midfielder Jorge Cestero as a potential replacement.
The French club are entering a new era under former Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti, with a summer of significant squad changes.
One of the club’s biggest priorities is preparing for the imminent exit of Bouaddi.
The 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder has become one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents following his impressive performances at the 2026 World Cup.
And, Manchester City are now close to reaching an agreement with Lille, having already verbally agreed personal terms with the player.
David Jiménez, Jorge Cestero and Álvaro Leiva of Real Madrid
Jorge Cestero (C) is on Lille’s radar. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
It has been suggested that the teenager is being seen at the Etihad as the long-term heir to midfield mainstay Rodri, who is expected to join Real Madrid this summer.
With Bouaddi’s departure appearing increasingly likely, Lille have already begun searching for a replacement.
According to Moretto, Lille have turned their attention to Cestero, one of the standout prospects in Real Madrid’s La Fabrica academy.
The 20-year-old defensive midfielder currently plays for Real Madrid Castilla and is regarded internally as one of the academy’s brightest prospects.
Cestero joined Real Madrid in 2019 and has steadily progressed thanks to his tactical intelligence, technical quality, and composure in possession.
Gonzalo Garcia and Jorge Cestero of Real Madrid
Cestero is rated highly at Real Madrid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Real Madrid remain highly optimistic about Cestero’s future. The midfielder, under contract until 2028, earned his first-team debut under Alvaro Arbeloa last season and went on to play five games.
The 20-year-old starlet has continued to feature in first-team pre-season training and matches this summer under Jose Mourinho.
While his maturity and influence for Castilla have strengthened the belief that he could eventually become part of Real Madrid’s first-team plans, an exit remains a possibility.
A loan deal could become an option, much like with Franco Mastantuono’s imminent move to Fiorentina, allowing the Spanish youngster to gain regular first-team experience while giving Lille a talented replacement with significant long-term upside.
Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid
Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images
Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid
Failing to make the most of his chances. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid
Things will continue to get harder for Camavinga. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)