Bouaddi set for Man City move as Chelsea block Roma loan for Gittens
Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi is set to join Manchester City after agreeing on a €100 million package with add-ons, according to Fabrizio Romano. The deal, which Lille approved, sees Bouaddi moving to the Premier League champions after having already agreed personal terms with City in July. He will join for the summer 2026 transfer window.
In a separate move, Chelsea have blocked a loan offer from AS Roma for winger Jamie Gittens. talkSPORT reports that Roma proposed a loan with an option to buy, but Chelsea, under Xabi Alonso, insist Gittens stays for the season and will not negotiate an exit.
These transfers highlight the Premier League’s ongoing squad reshaping ahead of the new season. Bouaddi’s arrival adds attacking depth to Manchester City, while Chelsea’s retention of Gittens signals their intent to keep developing talent in-house.
For Nigerian fans watching the league, how do you think Bouaddi will adapt to City’s system, and do you believe Chelsea’s decision to hold onto Gittens will pay off in the long run?