Lille boss determined to keep Bouaddi despite Man City interest as United's left-back search runs out of options
Davide Ancelotti says he wants to keep the 18-year-old despite reported interest from City and Arsenal, with Lille placing a €100 million valuation on the World Cup star. United's deadline-day left-back shopping list is getting shorter.
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Manchester City's pursuit of Ayyoub Bouaddi has hit a roadblock after Lille boss Davide Ancelotti outlined his determination to keep the 18-year-old.
The Morocco midfielder has been the subject of intense speculation since his impressive World Cup performances, with City and Arsenal both interested. But Ancelotti, son of footballing great Carlo, confirmed that while Bouaddi is attracting interest from a host of clubs, he intends to keep the teenager in Ligue 1. Lille are understood to have placed a €100 million (£85.6 million) valuation on the player.
It is another complication for City, who are preparing for the potential departure of Rodri. Barcelona have had an initial £38.5 million bid rejected, with City wanting upwards of £60 million for the World Cup-winning captain, who favours a move to the Camp Nou over Real Madrid.
What about United's left-back search?
With just over two weeks until deadline day, United's most pressing issue remains signing a left-back. Newcastle are refusing to sell Lewis Hall after already losing Gordon, Tonali and Guimaraes this summer. United and Chelsea both turned down Arsenal's offer of Myles Lewis-Skelly at £45 million last week, with the teenager keen to fight for his place at the Emirates.
United are running out of options. Luke Shaw started every Premier League game last season but his fitness record is a constant worry, while Patrick Dorgu has been used in an advanced role throughout pre-season. The club also still want another forward to support Benjamin Sesko, and the midfield search for a third signing alongside Tielemans and Santos continues with Manu Kone's move stalled by an internal disagreement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Rodri leaving Manchester City?
- Reports from Spain suggest Barcelona are in advanced talks to sign the midfielder for a fee exceeding £60 million.
- Who are Manchester United targeting for left-back?
- United have shown interest in Fulham's Antonee Robinson and Newcastle's Lewis Hall, though both deals currently appear unlikely to materialise.
- Are City and United competing for any of the same players?
- Both Manchester clubs are reportedly monitoring Brighton midfielder Jack Hinshelwood, alongside Arsenal, who are believed to be leading the race.