On Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Manchester City announced the signing of Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from French club Lille on a five-year contract. British media reported the transfer fee to be around £86 million ($117 million). Bouaddi, 18, made 30 Ligue 1 appearances last season and became Lille's youngest player in 2023 at age 16. He debuted for Morocco's senior team in May and participated in the World Cup, starting five of six matches as Morocco reached the quarter-finals. Bouaddi expressed his excitement, saying, "It’s a dream to be here and be able to call myself a City player. I have spent most of my life working hard to become the best player I can be and reach the top of the game."

Manchester City also signed England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest last month for a reported £116 million ($158 million). Meanwhile, midfielders Rodri, Bernardo Silva, and Tijjani Reijnders left the club during the current transfer window.

On the same day, Newcastle United confirmed the signing of Spanish midfielder Nico Gonzalez from Manchester City on a long-term contract. Although financial details were not officially disclosed, British media estimated the deal at around £52 million ($70.65 million). The 24-year-old Barcelona academy product made 59 appearances and scored four goals for Manchester City after joining from Porto last year.

Gonzalez, who will wear the number six shirt, was introduced to supporters at St James' Park before Newcastle's League Cup match against West Bromwich Albion. He said, "I'm really happy to be here at this amazing club. I've only heard top words about the club and the city, so I'm really excited to live here and to be part of this project." Reflecting on his previous experiences at St James' Park, he added, "I've experienced playing at St James' Park twice with Manchester City and it was really tough. The atmosphere was amazing and the fans are so passionate. I can't wait to experience that as a home player."

Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle praised the new signing, stating, "He brings serious quality and elite experience in a key area of the pitch."

These transfers highlight significant midfield changes for both clubs ahead of the new season.

Sources