Barcelona receive major Rodri update as Man City transfer decision confirmed

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Lille manager Davide Ancelotti has confirmed the club are in talks over the sale of Ayyoub Bouaddi to Manchester City.

Man City are believed to have identified Bouaddi as a replacement for Rodri, who is being pursued by La Liga giants Barcelona.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano claims Barcelona have lodged a third bid to sign Rodri, with negotiations ongoing between them and City.

And now Ancelotti has revealed City are planning to use the money generated from Rodri’s proposed sale towards landing Bouaddi.

However, the Italian - who is the son of legendary manager Carlo - hopes City are unable to match Lille’s reported €100million (£85m) asking price.

When asked about the future of Bouaddi after Lille’s pre-season clash with Everton, Ancelotti said: “Of course, there are negotiations.

“There is interest from so many clubs. He is a really, really good player, and I hope that he is going to stay with us!”

Ancelotti backs Bouaddi to become one of Europe's best

Bouaddi has developed a reputation as one of the best young players in the world since emerging through Lille’s youth system in 2023.

The 18-year-old has made 96 senior appearance for Les Dogues and helped them qualify for the Champions League by finishing third in Ligue 1 last term.

Bouaddi also enhanced his burgeoning reputation by helping Morocco reach the quarter-finals of the World Cup this summer.

Asked why the teen sensation is one of the most coveted players in world football, Ancelotti said: “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.”

Rodri eyeing new challenge as City start new era under Maresca

City have made five signings so far this summer, capturing Elliot Anderson, Mathys Detourbet, Jeremy Monga, Geronimo Rulli and Pierce Charles.

The Cityzens are preparing to start a new era under Enzo Maresca after the Italian replaced legendary manager Pep Guardiola in June.

One player who was central to City’s decade of dominance under Guardiola was Rodri, who has won 13 honours with the club including the treble in 2022-23.

However, the 30-year-old - who has just one year left on his City contract - is believed to be keen on new challenge with Barcelona.

Rodri is fresh off captaining Spain to World Cup glory last month, with the midfielder receiving the Golden Ball for his performances in North America.