Lille boss confirms Man City in talks with Moroccan starlet Ayyoub Bouaddi

City are strengthening their midfield ahead of the new Premier League season, with Tijjani Reijnders having moved to Saudi Arabia and Rodri's future uncertain amid interest from Barcelona.

Bouaddi has emerged as a key target, although Lille are reluctant to sell and would demand at least 85 million pounds for the Morocco international. The teenager has reportedly agreed personal terms with City, while several European clubs have also shown interest.

Ancelotti admitted he would prefer Bouaddi to stay at Lille after the midfielder played 45 minutes in Saturday's 1-1 pre-season draw with Everton.

"Of course, there are negotiations. There is interest from so many clubs," Ancelotti said. "He is a really, really good player and I hope that he is going to stay with us."

Ancelotti believes Bouaddi's maturity has made him a sought-after player despite his age.

"He has a huge personality. He is incredibly intelligent on and off the pitch, he is really mature. He is 18 years old but he looks like he is 32 when he is on the pitch.

"Technically he is really complete. He is also physical, really strong in duels. He's going to be one of the best midfielders in Europe for the next 10 years."

Bouaddi's reputation has grown following an impressive display against Brazil in Morocco's opening World Cup fixture.

City's interest comes as new manager Enzo Maresca reshapes the squad following Pep Guardiola's departure. After Sunday's 3-0 Community Shield defeat to Arsenal, Maresca stressed the need to complete City's remaining business quickly.

"He's still a Lille player," Maresca said. "But any new signing, any new player, for sure as soon as they arrive it's better. We're going to start the Premier League in one week.

"If they start to work with us as soon as possible, it's better if they can also understand the way we need to play."

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