Manchester City scouts have identified Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi as the club continues an expensive overhaul of its midfield department.

City management views Bouaddi as a key target, following their record-breaking £116m move for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, which makes him the most expensive British player in history.

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The 18-year-old Lille talent emerged as a breakout star during the World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in helping Morocco secure a spot in the quarter-finals.

Bouaddi previously captained France at the Under-21 level before he chose to represent Morocco, later appearing against his birth country during the tournament’s final eight.

Manchester City’s midfield transition follows the departure of Bernardo Silva, who joined Real Madrid on a free transfer once his contract expired.

While the club secures Anderson, uncertainty surrounds the long-term futures of Mateo Kovacic, Tijjani Reijnders, and Nico Gonzalez.

New manager Enzo Maresca is also focusing on signing full-backs as he works to reshape the squad inherited from Pep Guardiola.