Manchester City is moving forward with plans to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi, despite uncertainties surrounding Rodri‘s future at the club, according to sources cited by ESPN.
The club anticipates offers for Rodri from Real Madrid, who have rekindled their interest in the midfielder after his impressive performances for Spain during the recent World Cup.
City is eager to negotiate an extension for the 30-year-old, whose current contract has only one year remaining.
Enzo Maresca spoke about Rodri’s situation during a press conference last Friday, ahead of City’s friendly match against Inter.
“At this point, it’s merely speculation,” the Italian manager stated.
“Rodri underwent surgery last Monday, and it went well. He’ll be taking some time off now. His focus at the end of the season was on the World Cup, and now it’s time for him to rest. We haven’t discussed a new contract yet.”
“Any manager would love to have Rodri because he’s an exceptional player. This is significant for me, the club, and everyone involved.”
Sources have informed ESPN that City’s pursuit of Bouaddi, a standout performer at the World Cup, is independent of Rodri’s potential departure.
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The 18-year-old Bouaddi is viewed as a long-term investment, and his arrival at the Etihad could still happen even if Rodri remains at the club past the transfer deadline.
City has initiated talks with Bouaddi’s current club, Lille, and are hopeful that a deal can be finalized. If an agreement is struck, he may join Maresca’s first-team squad this season or be loaned back to Lille for a year to aid in his development in Ligue 1.