​Manchester City have moved decisively in the race for Ayyoub Bouaddi, with TeamTalk reporting that the Premier League champions now want the Lille midfielder to join immediately rather than return to France on loan. It is a significant development in one of the summer’s most closely watched transfer pursuits, and it underlines how seriously City view the 18-year-old’s readiness for senior football.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe latest information suggests City have altered their internal plan after reassessing the shape of their midfield rebuild. Bouaddi had previously been viewed as a player who could be signed and then left at Lille for another season. That possibility remains part of the wider conversation, but the stance from the Etihad has clearly shifted. As reported, City have “informed Bouaddi’s representatives that they now want him to arrive at the Etihad immediately”.Photo IMAGOThis is not happening in isolation. City’s interest appears to have strengthened as they moved away from other midfield targets. The report states they “backed away from a move for Sandro Tonali”, while also becoming “increasingly reluctant to meet Newcastle United’s valuation of Bruno Guimaraes”. In that context, Bouaddi has emerged as a more central figure in City’s thinking, rather than simply an opportunistic signing for the future.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThere is also belief inside the club that he can contribute sooner than many young players arriving from Ligue 1. City view him as someone “already capable of competing for first-team football and contributing this season rather than delaying his development with another year in Ligue 1”. That line is especially revealing because it points to confidence in both his technical level and his maturity.The idea of Bouaddi becoming “a cornerstone of Maresca’s next generation” is another strong indication of how the player is being framed internally. For a club that plans squad evolution carefully, this looks like more than a speculative move.City are not alone. Arsenal remain heavily involved and have monitored Bouaddi for a long period. According to the report, they “remain firmly in contention” and are comfortable with either an immediate switch or a further year at Lille. Chelsea hold a similarly flexible position, while Liverpool and Manchester United are also said to believe the midfielder is ready to make an impact now.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThat breadth of interest says plenty. When several elite clubs arrive at the same conclusion around a teenager, it usually reflects strong consensus in recruitment circles about talent level, ceiling and temperament. Bouaddi’s camp are now said to be in regular contact with suitors, with discussions intensifying after his return from the World Cup.The player’s decision may now come down to one central issue, pathway. The report says Bouaddi and his representatives are considering “not