Man City now 'close' to securing Enzo Maresca's biggest signing as manager confirms talks

Manchester City are now reportedly close to securing a mega-money deal to secure one of Enzo Maresca's top targets during the summer window.

City's season kicks off earlier than most teams, as they take on Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday afternoon at Wembley.

The Premier League season then gets underway next weekend with Arsenal, as reigning champions, playing in the traditional curtain-raiser against newly-promoted Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium.

The Community Shield will be played over the backdrop of plenty of transfer uncertainty surrounding both clubs - particularly Manchester City.

Midfielder Rodri is close to sealing a move to Barcelona, with Spanish outlet AS reporting that the two clubs are now just €10 million apart in their valuations.

It is suggested that a deal could be reached as soon as Monday for Rodri to leave the club.

The 30-year-old likely wouldn't have played at Wembley on Sunday in any case, as he has only just returned back from his break after winning the World Cup with Spain.

City have been on the lookout for replacements, but decided not to meet Chelsea's £120 million asking price for want-away midfielder Enzo Fernandez by the Blues' self-imposed Friday deadline.

The Argentina midfielder was booed by sections of supporters at Stamford Bridge when he came on as a substitute during their pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad on Saturday, but it looks as if he will have to stay put at his current club.

READ MORE: Enzo Fernandez booed by Chelsea fans after being subbed on during Real Sociedad friendly

One player who is seemingly getting closer to an exit is Lille's 18-year-old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who impressed for Morocco during the World Cup.

Bouaddi was linked with moves to a host of clubs at the beginning of the window, though it is reported that some interest has involved loaning the midfielder back to Lille while others want him immediately for their first team squads.

Ayyoub Bouaddi was one of the breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup (Image: Getty)

City are in the latter camp, as they are eyeing the 18-year-old as a replacement for Rodri.

'There are negotiations...' - Lille manager addresses Bouaddi speculation

Bouaddi's asking price has been set at around £85 million, which is significantly below the £116 million City spent on signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.

But given the importance of replacing 2024 Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, it can be argued that the Bouaddi deal has actually taken on more importance for the eight-time Premier League winners.

French newspaper Ouest-France report that Bouaddi is 'close' to joining City.

After Lille's pre-season friendly against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, during which Bouaddi played 45 minutes, their manager Davide Ancelotti spoke openly about his midfielder's future.

"He was physically ready to play, and he did play 45 minutes," Ancelotti told reporters. "But that's only because I have to manage his playing time."

"Of course, there are negotiations," he added, though did not specifically name Manchester City. "Many clubs are interested in him. He is a very, very good player and I hope he will stay with us."