Manchester City Line Up Ayyoub Bouaddi as Rodri Successor Amid Real Madrid Interest

Manchester City have reportedly identified Ayyoub Bouaddi as their preferred replacement should Rodri complete a blockbuster move to Real Madrid this summer.

With speculation surrounding Rodri’s future continuing to dominate the transfer market, Pep Guardiola’s side are already planning for every possible outcome. While City remain determined to keep the Spanish midfielder, the club’s recruitment department has begun working on an alternative should negotiations with Real Madrid gather pace.

Rodri’s Future Sparks Transfer Planning

Rodri has become one of the most sought-after players in world football, with Real Madrid keen to bring the Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder back to Spain.

Although Manchester City continue to regard the 30-year-old as an irreplaceable figure in Guardiola’s system, reports suggest the midfielder is open to the prospect of returning to La Liga. That possibility has prompted City to accelerate their search for a long-term successor.

Bouaddi Emerges as City’s Top Target

According to reports from England, Manchester City’s first-choice replacement is Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, one of Europe’s brightest young talents.

The 18-year-old Morocco international enhanced his growing reputation with a series of impressive performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, showcasing maturity well beyond his age. His composure in possession, ability to progress the ball through midfield and intelligence in breaking opposition lines have reportedly convinced City that he fits Guardiola’s style perfectly.

Club officials believe Bouaddi possesses both the technical quality and tactical awareness required to thrive in Manchester City’s demanding system.

Lille Set €100 Million Valuation

Lille are fully aware of the increasing interest in their teenage star and are understood to value Bouaddi at around €100 million.

Manchester City are reportedly prepared to meet that valuation if Rodri leaves the Etihad this summer. However, the Premier League champions are also considering an alternative strategy that would see Bouaddi signed now before spending another season with Lille should Rodri remain in Manchester.

Such an approach would allow City to secure one of Europe’s most promising midfielders while carefully managing the transition in the heart of Guardiola’s squad.

Everything Hinges on Rodri’s Decision

For now, City’s priority remains convincing Rodri to continue leading their midfield.

The Spanish international has been central to the club’s domestic and European success in recent years, making his potential departure one of the biggest stories of the transfer window.

Should Rodri ultimately decide to join Real Madrid, Manchester City are expected to move swiftly for Bouaddi, viewing the teenager as the ideal player to begin a new era at the Etihad Stadium.

While no formal agreement has yet been reached, City’s contingency plans are already in motion, with Bouaddi firmly established as the club’s leading candidate to fill one of the most important roles in Guardiola’s team.