Bouaddi Nears Record for Most Expensive U18 Player

Manchester City has secured the signing of Moroccan talent Ayoub Bouaddi from French club Lille, in a transfer that could position the young player among the most expensive talents to leave their clubs before turning 18.

According to circulating data, the total value of the deal could reach €100 million, with €95 million as a fixed amount, along with €5 million in performance-related bonuses tied to the player's performance with the English club.

The magnitude of the deal is highlighted by the fact that Bouaddi's market value, according to Transfermarkt, is estimated at around €80 million, reflecting the level of trust Manchester City places in the Moroccan player's abilities and his potential for development in the coming years.

If the transfer is completed at the mentioned value, Boudi will be a candidate to top the list of the most expensive players who have moved to new clubs before reaching the age of 18.

The Moroccan player is set to exceed the record set by Frenchman Lenny Yuro's transfer from Lille to Manchester United, which was valued at around €62 million. He will also surpass the transfer of Brazilian Endrick from Palmeiras to Real Madrid for €72 million.

The potential transfer value of Bouadi could exceed the €61 million transfer of Estefao Willian from Palmeiras to Chelsea. Meanwhile, the transfers of Brazilians Vinicius Junior and Rodrigo to Real Madrid are valued at €45 million each, which is the same amount seen in the deal for Argentine Franco Mastantuono from River Plate.

Manchester City's interest in Bouaddi comes after his standout performances with the Moroccan national team during the 2026 World Cup, where he solidified his presence on the international stage and caught the attention as one of the most promising talents in global football.

The English club's move coincided with the departure of Spanish midfielder Rodri, prompting Manchester City to seek new options to bolster their midfield. There is a clear bet on Bouadi's ability to develop and become a key player in the team's project over the coming years.

With this move, the Moroccan player continues his rapid ascent, having transitioned from a promising talent at Lille Academy to a sought-after player by one of Europe's biggest clubs, in a deal that could make him the most expensive player under 18 in football history.