Manchester City officially sign Ayyoub Bouaddi

Michael Carrick’s Manchester United side completed a busy overhaul with the additions of Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and, most recently, Carlos Baleba.

That trio joined Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo to give United considerable depth in central areas heading into the new season.

United’s business in midfield extended beyond those three names, too, with the club exploring several other targets throughout the summer.

One of those pursuits ultimately ended with a rival landing the player instead.

Ayyoub Bouaddi signs for Manchester City

Manchester City have completed the signing of Ayyoub Bouaddi on a five-year contract, subject to international clearance, as they revealed on their website.

The 18-year-old midfielder joins from French side Lille in a deal that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2031.

Ayyoub Bouaddi arrives as one of the most exciting young talents in world football, having made 96 appearances for Lille and already won eight international caps.

He made his senior debut for the Ligue 1 club in the UEFA Conference League just three days after turning 16, before establishing himself as a regular over the following two seasons.

Bouaddi represented France at youth and Under-21 level before switching allegiance to Morocco, the nationality of his parents, and starred for them at this summer’s World Cup.

United had been linked with a move for the midfielder earlier this summer, with plenty of other clubs also credited with interest.

United were pushing to arrange talks with Bouaddi’s entourage, even considering involving Sir Alex Ferguson in an attempt to help convince the player to move to Old Trafford.

That interest ultimately failed to progress into anything more concrete as City moved decisively to secure his signature.

Baleba’s arrival was confirmed only this week.

Tielemans joined from Aston Villa for £35million, while Santos arrived from Chelsea as United sought a more balanced profile across the middle of the park.

City’s move for Bouaddi continues a pattern of the club investing heavily in some of Europe’s most promising young talents in recent windows.

His versatility and composure on the ball were reportedly key factors behind City’s decision to move quickly for his signature.

United’s focus is now expected to shift towards their defensive options as the transfer deadline approaches.