Man City are looking to strengthen the midfield further after recruiting Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Speaking about the club’s plans for the rest of the transfer window on his YouTube channel, Romano said:
“Manchester City are also closing in on the deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi. This is not going to be the only signing for Man City in midfield. They want to do more.”
It seems that the potential departure of Rodri to Barcelona may well lead to the club going back into the market.
Who could Man City sign to replace Rodri?
Some reports suggest that Enzo Maresca’s side could make a move for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, but that deal would be difficult to do for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, the Blues have slapped a £120m asking price on the Argentinian international, and they have not given any indication that they will lower their valuation.
Secondly, relations between the two teams are said to be decidedly frosty following the manner of Maresca’s appointment.
An alternative could potentially be Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga, who was linked with a move to the Etihad in the Spanish press about a month ago.
What is the latest on the Bouaddi transfer?
Romano says that an agreement is close on the transfer fee, and he has now had it confirmed that the teenager will be joining the Cityzens this summer rather than staying on loan at Lille for another season:
“Bouaddi indicated, according to my information, to Manchester City that he hopes to go to Man City now; the plan at the beginning of the negotiation during the World Cup when Bouaddi was doing great…”
“The player is pushing to go to Manchester City immediately. So, the agreement on the contract is done. The agreement on the salary is done. Bouaddi says ‘yes’ to Manchester City project, now working to complete everything between the two clubs, Manchester City and Lille. They are already in advance talks. Last week Man City presented an improved bid for Bouaddi, and now the conversation is absolutely underway.”