Ayyoub Bouaddi, an 18-year-old midfielder for LOSC (under contract until 2029) and Morocco, is reportedly being targeted by Paris Saint-Germain and other major European clubs for the 2026 summer transfer window. Journalist Nicolo Schira confirmed on Tuesday that Manchester City is currently pulling ahead in the race.
It is certainly plausible; we have seen Manchester City pull off major transfers before. Although Pep Guardiola has left, the club remains a powerhouse with compelling sporting and financial appeal. There is also hope that Enzo Maresca can build upon his predecessor’s vision and style of play. As part of maintaining an ambitious project, signing Bouaddi could prove to be a brilliant move.
However, nothing is set in stone yet. It remains a rumor, and an agreement in principle offers no guarantee. An agreement must also be reached with Lille—a significant hurdle for this summer. Incidentally, the prospect of Bouaddi joining PSG during this transfer window has recently faded, particularly given the depth of Paris’s current midfield.